The Documentary Podcast BBC Trending: Print and shoot - The spread of 3D-printed guns
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May 28, 2025 Dive into the alarming world of 3D-printed guns, exploring the implications of this evolving technology. Hear about the chilling case of a CEO's murder linked to a ghost gun. Learn how social media fuels the proliferation of untraceable firearms and the challenges they pose for law enforcement. Investigate clandestine online transactions, where people buy and sell these weapons. The discussion unpacks the dark web of illegal arms trading and the difficulties in regulating this emerging threat.
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3D Gun Used in High-Profile Murder
- Brian Thompson was fatally shot with a 3D-printed pistol found in the suspect's backpack.
- The murder weapon was identified as a Chairman 1 V1, showing advanced 3D-printed gun technology today.
Nature of 3D Printed Ghost Guns
- Ghost guns are homemade, unserialized, and untraceable firearms.
- 3D printed guns lower barriers by allowing assembly from scratch with a printer and blueprints.
Evolution of 3D Printed Firearms
- The first 3D printed firearm, the Liberator, was single-shot polymer and from 2013.
- Now, 3D printed semi-automatic rifles exist, showing rapid tech sophistication.