3D gun ban.

• Author: Evans, Zenon
• Position: Don't print this at home - Brief article

ON NOVEMBER 21, the Philadelphia City Council approved a ban on manufacturing guns with a 3D printer unless the owner of the printer also has a federal firearms manufacturing license. According to Philadelphia magazine, Councilman Kenyatta Johnson (D-Center City), who crafted the legislation, is unaware of any actual 3D gun manufacturers in the city. In a surprisingly forthright statement, Johnson's office explained: "It's all pre-emptive. It's just based upon internet stuff out there."

Criminals may have little incentive to buy or build plastic 3D-printed guns, many of which are capable of only a few shots before breaking. Increasing capability for the production of metal 3D-printed guns may change that, but for now the equipment needed to manufacture one of these firearms...