A new era begins in 3D-printed gun production
Despite government blocking efforts, 3D-printed guns are becoming widespread.
1First Legal Step Against 3D-Printed Guns
New York Governor Kathy Hochul enacted the first law this year requiring 3D printers to install software that detects gun files. The law aims to prevent 'ghost guns,' but advocates argue such regulations could restrict open-source 3D printing. The mandate forces printers to recognize and stop printing gun files before they start.
2Hochulization: The New Bypass Method
Cody Wilson, who runs the DEFCAD 3D gun file repository, developed a tool called 'Hochulization.' This tool changes file hashes to evade detection. Wilson plans to make it open source for public use. Hochulization alters identification codes without affecting file functionality, allowing undetected printing of firearms.
3The Rise of 3D-Printed Guns
In 2021, New York Police seized only one 3D-printed gun, but this number rose to 109 by 2024. The gun control group Everytown found similar increases in 20 other cities. However, 3D-printed weapons still represent a small fraction of total seized firearms. Estimates suggest the total number of guns in the U.S. exceeds the population.
4Technological Advancements
Since Cody Wilson's single-shot 'Liberator' in 2013, 3D gun technology has advanced significantly. Models like the FGC-9 can now fire multiple high-velocity rounds. These weapons have been used by neo-Nazi groups in Europe and rebels in Myanmar. 3D-printed suppressors and auto-sear converters pose even greater dangers.
5Legal Loopholes
3D-printed guns create major gaps in the legal system. Individuals with felony records, legally barred from owning firearms, can bypass restrictions using 3D printers. While many states ban 'ghost gun' manufacturing, enforcement remains challenging. Cases like Luigi Mangione's, who used 3D-printed parts in a murder, highlight the risks.
6Industry Reactions
The 3D printing industry debates the feasibility of gun-blocking software at scale. Some experts doubt its effectiveness, while politicians like Hochul emphasize closing the illegal 'plastic pipeline.' California is considering similar legislation, reflecting growing concerns over unregulated 3D-printed firearms.
7Digital Surveillance Concerns
Digital rights advocates warn that mandatory file scanning on 3D printers increases surveillance risks. Beyond gun activists, makers and entertainment industry representatives argue such measures could stifle creativity. These groups contend that internet freedom is under threat from overreaching regulations.
8DEFCAD's Role
Cody Wilson's DEFCAD is the world's largest repository of 3D gun files, hosting over 200,000 designs and components. Each file has a unique hash code theoretically detectable by scanning systems. Hochulization aims to render these codes untraceable, undermining government efforts to catalog prohibited designs.
9Hash-Altering Technology
The Hochulization tool modifies file hashes by adding bytes without altering functionality. Wilson describes this as a 'self-defense' measure, applying it to all DEFCAD files. The system seeks to invalidate government hash libraries, making preemptive detection of gun files nearly impossible.
10Future Scenarios
Experts warn that 3D-printed guns pose an escalating public health threat. Legal and technological countermeasures aim to control the spread, but bypass tools like Hochulization indicate an ongoing arms race. The evolution and proliferation of 3D gun technology could reshape global security policies in unforeseen ways.
Original article: The Verge — 3D yazıcıdan silah üretiminde yeni bir dönem başlıyor