Creating an AR mag using 3D Printer

[Grumpyoldretiredcop]

It can't print metal yet, though, can it?

And if it could, how do you control part porosity?

Sure can. Some extra steps are required.

[bohoki]

why do a mag when you could do a lower i would increase the outer thickness a tad

[Grumpyoldretiredcop]

why do a mag when you could do a lower i would increase the outer thickness a tad

The biggest problem is that the plastics most commonly used have extremely low tensile strength. That isn't improved by the 3D printing process, which lays the material down in thin layers. Even using metal powder/sintering techniques would yield a lower that is weaker (as I understand it) than one machined from a cast blank, never mind a forged receiver.

On the other hand, if it lasts for only a few shots, you've got the perfect throwaway frame...

[chim-chim7]

You could print with carbide in powder form. That would be awesome.