What Happens If You Make Your Own Guns Using A 3D Printer?

New York has a reputation for its tough-on-guns laws. Not only are gun owners extremely limited as to how and when they can use their firearms, but it’s also very difficult to obtain firearms legally in the first place. And even if you manage to get the correct permits and licenses, you may be very limited as to which varieties of guns you can own in the state. Faced with an assault rifle ban and other legal limitations, some firearm enthusiasts are taking matters into their own hands. With new 3D printing technology, it is theoretically possible to manufacture your own weapons in a spare basement or attic. But what kinds of consequences could you face if caught?

Schenectady Man Caught Making Guns with 3D Printer 

On January 19th, the Department of Justice reported that a man from Schenectady had been caught with a 3D printer and several illegal firearms. Police then discovered that he had been following instructions to create firearms and firearm components with the 3D printer. They also found several components designed to “convert firearms into machine guns,” although it’s not clear whether these components were created with the 3D printer or simply purchased illegally.

This defendant’s situation was made even worse by the presence of large quantities of DMT. In total, 10 kilos of mimosa bark were uncovered, and the defendant admitted he intended to create and sell liquid DMT. The combination of the drugs, illegal weapons, and 3D-printed gun parks means that he may spend up to 20 years in prison.

The Laws Against 3D-Printed Gun Parts in New York 

Laws against 3D printed gun parts were created back in 2019 when Governor Cuomo signed a bill banning the manufacture, sale, transportation, and possession of 3D-printed guns. However, critics pointed out that it is already illegal to possess guns undetectable by x-ray machines in New York. In addition, they pointed out that there are cheaper and easier ways to obtain weapons in New York. For example, ghost guns are far more popular than 3D printed guns and are exchanged regularly among criminals. Finally, it’s worth mentioning that a 3D printer is expensive and therefore beyond the reach of most criminals. Under federal law, it is perfectly legal to create your own firearm for personal use. However, New York handles this matter with its own laws.

Where Can I Find a Qualified Criminal Defense Lawyer in New York? 

If you’ve been searching for a qualified, experienced New York criminal defense attorney, look no further than Phillip J. Murphy, Attorney at Law. With our help, you can strive for the best possible results in a confident manner. New York’s gun laws are famously harsh, but that doesn’t mean you need to sit back and accept excessive penalties without putting up a fight in court. Book your consultation today, and you can immediately get started with an effective defense strategy. Remember, internet research can only get you so far.

Sources: 

justice.gov/usao-ndny/pr/schenectady-man-pleads-guilty-drug-and-gun-manufacturing-charges

nysenate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senate-passes-gun-safety-legislation-ban-3d-printed-guns