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Man Arrested for Making Homemade Firearm Parts with 3D Printer

Tuesday, July 7, 2026 · 1 sources

A former Army National Guard member was found to be making homemade firearm parts using a 3D printer. The parts included lower receivers and 'switches', which were packed into boxes.

In the summer of 2024, Andrew Scott Hastings, a former Army National Guard member, spent an afternoon packing boxes with parts he made using his 3D printer. The boxes contained homemade firearm lower receivers and over 100 'switches', small parts used in firearms.

Hastings' actions have raised concerns about the proliferation of 'ghost guns', which are homemade firearms that lack serial numbers and are often untraceable. The use of 3D printing technology has made it easier for individuals to create their own firearm parts, which can then be assembled into functional guns.

The case highlights the challenges faced by law enforcement in regulating and tracking homemade firearms, which can be made using readily available technology and materials.

Go Deeper

What are ghost guns?

Ghost guns are homemade firearms that lack serial numbers and are often untraceable. They can be made using 3D printing technology or other methods, and are a concern for law enforcement due to their potential for use in crimes.

How are ghost guns made?

Ghost guns can be made using 3D printing technology, which allows individuals to create their own firearm parts. These parts can then be assembled into functional guns. Other methods, such as machining or casting, can also be used to create ghost guns.

Are ghost guns legal?

The legality of ghost guns varies by jurisdiction. In some areas, it is legal to create and possess homemade firearms, while in others it is not. However, the lack of serial numbers on ghost guns makes them difficult to track and regulate, which can pose a challenge for law enforcement.

What are the concerns surrounding ghost guns?

The main concern surrounding ghost guns is their potential for use in crimes. Because they lack serial numbers, ghost guns can be difficult to track and are often untraceable. This makes it challenging for law enforcement to investigate crimes involving these firearms.

How can the proliferation of ghost guns be prevented?

Preventing the proliferation of ghost guns will likely require a combination of legislation, regulation, and education. This could include laws requiring serial numbers on homemade firearms, regulations on the sale of 3D printing technology and firearm parts, and public awareness campaigns about the risks associated with ghost guns.