If I had a 3d printer could I make airsoft parts?

[Ian_Gere]

I think it'd be great, since you'll have access to it anyway. You could make all sorts of things that aren't available but should be. Like a long barreled version of a Goblin single shottie with a grip and rail attachments to sling it under your G36 and mine.

 

[PT247]

gotta be worth giving it a go if you want to try it

custom parts, one offs and a unique weapon could be proper cool

 

[Lozart]

If the printer isn't yours, will the owner be OK with you tying up his machine for the length of time it'll take to print something like that? Plus there's also the resolution of the machine. Is it high enough to make a smooth(ish) finish or are you going to have to hand work it afterwards?

Instead of the RIS you'd be better off making something that's hard to machine and therefore works out cheaper as a 3D print. Anything that can be injection moulded (like a handguard) will always work out expensive to print.

 

[adam bussey]

If the printer isn't yours, will the owner be OK with you tying up his machine for the length of time it'll take to print something like that? Plus there's also the resolution of the machine. Is it high enough to make a smooth(ish) finish or are you going to have to hand work it afterwards?

Instead of the RIS you'd be better off making something that's hard to machine and therefore works out cheaper as a 3D print. Anything that can be injection moulded (like a handguard) will always work out expensive to print.

it called experimentation, so why not make stuff no one else makes.

 

[TacMaster]

Maybe when it'd be cheaper to injection mould it instead?

 

[adam bussey]

problem with injection molding is you have to make a mold for everything you make, whereas 3d printing you need a cad file

 

[Lozart]

it called experimentation, so why not make stuff no one else makes.

Hey, don't get me wrong I'm all for a little experimentation. As long as the machines owner is OK with it and you can afford the raw materials then yes, why the hell not!

What WOULD be cool is if you can get hold of a 3D printer that prints in metal and then make yourself a one piece gearbox that would have no join lines to fail.

 

[TacMaster]

Problem with 3D printing is that it's more expensive to make what you have in mind. Refer to Lozart's post

 

[PT247]

I do get the point that things can be done cheaper, but I also see massive value and satisfaction in knowing you have built not bought the mods. I tinker with bikes and although the modern stuff is far superior in bang per buck, the custom built and modified bikes are way cooler

 

[Mr Enfield]

I dont see why you couldn't although id imagine their would be licence issues if you were to copy established products.