NRA News Commentator Billy Johnson on Gun Tech: 3-D Printed and "Smart" Guns

Published on November 15, 2013
Duration: 11:23

NRA News commentator Billy Johnson discusses the evolving landscape of firearm technology, focusing on 3D printed and 'smart' guns. He emphasizes that while 3D printing technology is advancing, current consumer-level printers are not yet capable of producing reliable firearms, especially metal ones. Johnson expresses skepticism about 'smart gun' technology, arguing it's not a substitute for proper training and responsible firearm storage, and questions its market viability and potential for failure under stress. He suggests that widespread adoption by military and law enforcement would be a significant endorsement.

Quick Summary

NRA commentator Billy Johnson discusses the evolving landscape of firearm technology, focusing on 3D printed and 'smart' guns. He notes that current 3D printing technology has limitations for firearm production and expresses skepticism about 'smart guns,' emphasizing that they are not a substitute for training and responsible storage.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Billy Johnson on NRA News
  2. 00:13The Hype Around 3D Printed Firearms
  3. 00:43Plastic vs. Metal 3D Printed Guns
  4. 01:07Future of Consumer 3D Printing for Parts
  5. 01:39Technology and Access to Information
  6. 01:55Critique of Banning New Firearm Technologies
  7. 02:19Technology's Role in the Gun Debate
  8. 02:48Discussion on 'Smart Guns'
  9. 03:06Smart Guns: Not a Substitute for Training
  10. 03:26Skepticism Towards Smart Gun Technology
  11. 03:43Smart Gun Adoption by Military/LE
  12. 04:03Smart Gun Technology and Self-Defense Needs
  13. 04:31Historical Context of Smart Gun Research
  14. 04:49Who Does Smart Gun Technology Actually Save?
  15. 04:58The Inevitability of Bypassing Security
  16. 05:34Smart Guns Under Stress: Reliability Concerns
  17. 06:12Why Firearms Haven't Changed Much
  18. 06:44Conclusion and Farewell

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the current limitations of 3D printed firearms?

While 3D printing technology is advancing, current consumer-level printers are not yet capable of reliably producing firearms, especially metal ones. Plastic printers are more accessible, but the viability and longevity of plastic firearms remain debatable.

What is the public's stance on 'smart gun' technology?

A recent poll indicates that Americans are not very supportive of 'smart gun' technology. This is largely attributed to the perception that it's a government mandate rather than a product driven by consumer demand or the free market.

Why is 'smart gun' technology viewed skeptically by some firearm enthusiasts?

Skeptics argue that 'smart gun' technology is not a substitute for proper firearm training and responsible storage. They also worry about potential technological failures under stress, which could prevent access to the firearm when needed for self-defense.

What is the expert opinion on banning new firearm technologies like 3D printing?

Banning new firearm technologies is seen as an ineffective approach. Experts suggest that progress in technology and information spread is inevitable, and the focus should be on adapting to and living with these new developments rather than trying to stop them.

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