Daring AM: Software Advances Aim to Curb Illegal 3D Printing of Firearms

In response to a growing global concern about the misuse of 3D printing technology for illegal firearm production, two initiatives have emerged with software solutions designed to detect and prevent the manufacture of untraceable gun components. Cloud-based 3D printing management platform 3DPrinterOS partnered with Montclair State University‘s Making and Innovating for X (MIX) Lab to develop an algorithm to identify 3D printed firearm parts. Similarly, Print&Go launched 3D GUN’T, a software system to block the production of unregistered, untraceable firearms, commonly known as ghost guns.

Major illegal materials seizure, 3D printed gun parts, and 3D printers. Image courtesy of Detroit Police Department.

As 3D printing became more accessible, DIY gunsmiths began using the technology to make firearm components that can evade traditional regulations. In fact, law enforcement agencies worldwide have reported an increase in the use of 3D printed gun parts, such as Glock switches, which convert semi-automatic pistols into fully automatic weapons. This surge has led to urgent calls for solutions to curb the spread of these untraceable firearms used by criminals.

While specific data on the exact models used by criminals is limited, certain consumer-grade 3D printers are often connected to the production of illegal firearm parts due to their low cost, ease of use, and open-source designs. Commonly used 3D printers that have appeared in police seizures worldwide include the Creality Ender 3, especially the Ender 3 V2 model, as well as some Prusa models like the Prusa i3 MK3S+ and Elegoo printers. These are all fused deposition modeling (FDM) hardware that uses a plastic filament to build objects layer by layer, making them accessible to a wide range of users.

While major 3D printer manufacturers have not made public complaints about the misuse of their devices to make illegal firearms, the industry is aware of this potential for abuse. Some companies have taken steps to prevent sharing firearm-related designs on their platforms and are considering partnerships with regulatory bodies to tackle these challenges.

New Jersey Police Department conducted research investigation and 3D printed switches using a Bambu Lab. Image courtesy of the NJSCI.

Building on these efforts, 3DPrinterOS and the MIX Lab have joined forces to develop an algorithm to detect 3D-printed firearm components based on unique design signatures. This partnership hopes to boost safety and regulatory compliance. By leveraging the expertise of both organizations, the project seeks to develop a tool that can assist manufacturers, regulators, educational institutions like K-12 schools and universities, and law enforcement agencies in monitoring and controlling the distribution of potentially dangerous components.

The partners will use the MIX Lab’s research facilities and expertise in computer science and 3D printing design to develop an automated system that will alert users if firearm components are detected.

“This partnership allows us to explore the intersection of technology and public safety. We are excited to contribute our knowledge to develop a system that can make a real difference in identifying and mitigating risks associated with 3D printed firearms,” says Jason Frasca, co-director of the MIX at Montclair State University.

This collaboration could also pave the way for safer 3D printing practices while providing students and faculty at Montclair State University with hands-on experience in real-world applications of 3D printing technology and algorithm development.

Disassembled 3D printed firearm. Image courtesy of University of Lausanne.

Meanwhile, Print&Go’s recently unveiled 3D GUN’T is an innovative system designed to prevent the illegal manufacture of firearms via 3D printers. As one of the first solutions of its kind, 3D GUN’T incorporates advanced algorithms capable of analyzing CAD files to detect components that match or resemble known firearm designs, immediately blocking any print jobs that match items in its extensive database.

Whether files are sent remotely or loaded directly via a USB stick, the software scans models against an extensive database of firearm components. If a match is found, the print is immediately blocked. Additionally, the system uses artificial intelligence (AI) to recognize new or modified gun designs, keeping the software adaptive to emerging threats.

Beyond file analysis, 3D GUN’T includes several key features to boost security and oversight. The system logs each print job’s details, allowing authorities to trace unauthorized activities if necessary and even conduct a full audit trail.

Integrated firmware installed directly on printers adds an extra layer of protection, ensuring that unauthorized printing is blocked even if the printer is offline. Moreover, real-time camera monitoring provides visual oversight during printing, stopping any print job if a firearm shape is detected.

“3D GUN’T is a critical tool in our efforts to ensure the responsible use of 3D printing technology,” explains Print&Go’s CEO John Amin. “The solution not only prevents the illegal manufacture of firearms but also creates peace of mind for clients, whether they are makers, educational institutions, or businesses. With 3D GUN’T, users can oversee the management of their print jobs with the assurance that their technology misuse can be mitigated.”

Illegal gun switches. Image courtesy of ATF.

As these projects move forward, both organizations are committed to keeping the public updated on their progress, showing their dedication to transparency and ethical innovation. Recently, there has been a big debate in the U.S. about banning 3D printers because of concerns over their use in making untraceable guns. Many people, however, believe the issue isn’t the technology itself but how it’s used. In history, other manufacturing technologies have also faced similar scrutiny when some people used them to make harmful things. In this context, some believe stricter controls, like those developed by 3DPrinterOS and Print&Go, might provide a better approach than banning the technology altogether.

Actually, if successful, these efforts could become a model for handling similar issues in 3D printing, finding a balance between advancing the technology and ensuring it is safe, such as in intellectual property theft, the production of counterfeit medical devices or low-quality implants in healthcare, and the creation of other restricted or potentially harmful items, such as lock-picking tools or drones, which may require regulatory oversight.

In a world where technology outpaces regulations, partnerships like these could help ensure that innovation goes hand in hand with safety.