Now just as a disclaimer, I am not at all saying that this thing is safe or a good magazine to use for actual field work or the range. But, what it is good for is modeling and giving life to an idea.
On the other hand, this technology and the materials used are only getting better/cheaper/stronger/lighter. So there might be a day where you are hanging out on a forum like Lightfighter, and exchanging notes with other ‘makers’ about how to make cool new weapon and equipment parts using a 3D printer. You already see that on forums like this when it comes to textiles and sewing.
I also mentioned in the past about using a 3D printer to make UAV’s, or how SOCOM was interested in using this technology. With the examples below, the thing I was thinking about is using these printers to make the obscure little plastic parts that are essential in all types of equipment being used out there. Lots of ideas for this stuff and we will see how it evolves. –Matt
AR-15 Rifle Magazine
by crank
This thing is a Work in Progress.
Expect the files and instructions for this thing to change.
Description
Print at YOUR OWN RISK, Neither the creator of this object nor thingiverse.com is responsible for anything that happens because you printed this object! ?This is a near fully printable 5.56mm X 45mm or .233 REM AR-15 magazine. It is current only a 5 round magazine. I left my printed spring design out on purpose for saftey reasons. However, with a little printing experimention and some range time it can be made easily.?What is included is the magazine body, anti-tilt follower, and floorplate. ?I have used this magazine, no jams or feed problems….. YET. It works, but be reminded it is only a printed ABS magazine. If you end up using a printed ABS mag spring be prepared for stress relaxation of the polymer over time, especailly if it is kept loaded over a long period of time.
Instructions
Print at YOUR OWN RISK, Neither the creator of this object nor thingiverse.com is responsible for anything that happens because you printed this object! ?Well, the zombies are at it again………and you forgot your magazines out in your vehicle. Doh!?1) You Have a need for an 5.56mm X 45mm AR-15 magazine.Those pesky zombies are at your door AGAIN.?2) In a case with zombies, make sure you can hold them at bay for approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes for printing + 15-20 minutes for cleaning and sanding. Perhaps some pieces of wood nailed to the windows and doors would do the trick? ?3) Download the needed files … if zombies have not destroyed the web yet. ?4) Use a 3D solid modeling program to make your printable magazine spring?5) PRINT AND HOLD OFF THOSE ZOMBIES!!! Also don’t lean against any boarded up windows or doors because as we have seen in the movies the zombies will punch through the boards and grab you or your loved ones at the most in opportune time.?6) After the print is successful, clean with some 150 grit sandpaper and finish with some 400-600 grit sandpaper. Make sure it is smooth and any hanging plastic is taken care of. We wouldn’t want any round feeding malfunctions while battling zombies? ?7) Now to assemble. Drop the follower in the mag body, put the spring in the body making sure proper contact with the follower, and now slide the floorplate onto the the bottom of the magazine body and load.?8) By now, those boarded up windows and doors may have been compromised…. and you are holed up in your cellar with your 3D printer but now you can defend yourself against those Zombies. GOOD LUCK!
Downloads
Mag Body .STL
212 kb
Follower.STL
205 kb
Floorplate.STL
666 kb
Link to post here.