Hey folks. Yes, that’s right Facebook have decided to lift the 3D Printed Gun Ban. This, however, may not have been the best decision, but I’m sure Facebook has their reasons.
What is a 3D printed or “Downloadable” Gun?
A 3D Printed gun, otherwise known as a “downloadable” gun is exactly what it sounds like. Anyone with a printer and a bit of knowledge could simply go online buy a blueprint and print a weapon. Doesn’t sound very good, does it? Now some of you might be thinking plastic gun, plastic bullets, right? Wrong very wrong. These printed guns can shoot live ammunition. This is why Facebook banned them back in August 2018.
What was the ban?
The ban was initially implemented in August 2018, and it stopped people from being able to trade blueprints and models for 3D printed guns. This was the first ban as it was able to control the distribution of homemade guns and weapons. Printed guns are otherwise known as “downloadable guns” are also counted as unlicensed firearms and untraceable as once used they could be melted back down. However, for some reason, Facebook is deciding to lift the ban.
Why are they allowing this?
Well, to be honest, it’s not completely bad. Facebook isn’t allowing any Joe just to download a gun. The 3D printed gun ban will remain for all countries except America. They are enabling legitimate gun stores to sell the blueprints online but will only allow the sale if all applicable laws are followed. For example, the guns sold must have a serial number printed on the side and a metal strip installed within the weapon, so they are detected by metal detectors. So it’s not all bad that Facebook is going through with this.
Should we worry about 3D printed guns?
I’m not too worried as the blueprints and guns will only be available in America and currently can only be printed with large precise industrial printers using ABS. The company, however, are now creating a slightly better one usable for home printers.
What do you make of all this? Do you agree the ban should be lifted? Or do you think the ban should remain? I’d like to hear what your thoughts are in the comments below!
Must check out this 3D printed Lamborghini made by a father and son!
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