3D Printing Practice Ammo

Published on July 30, 2020
Duration: 9:09

This guide details how to 3D print your own dummy cartridges, also known as snap caps, for firearm practice and training. The video emphasizes the cost-effectiveness and availability of 3D printing, especially for uncommon calibers. It provides instructions on modifying printed rounds to function as effective snap caps by creating a primer pocket with hot glue for firing pin cushioning. The presenter, from Deuce and Guns, shares practical tips and potential pitfalls, such as ensuring print durability for extraction.

Quick Summary

3D printing dummy cartridges offers significant cost savings, with rounds costing as little as 10 cents, and increased availability for uncommon calibers. To function as snap caps, drill the primer pocket and fill with hot glue for firing pin cushioning. For durability, print with 1.5mm walls and solid top/bottom sections.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Need for Practice Ammo
  2. 00:06What are 3D Printed Dummy Cartridges?
  3. 00:18Advantages: Price and Availability
  4. 00:42Cost Breakdown of 3D Printed Rounds
  5. 00:54Why Use Dummy Cartridges?
  6. 01:03Demonstration and Museum Use
  7. 01:10Training and Speed Drills
  8. 01:21Inducing Malfunctions with Dummy Rounds
  9. 01:37Downloading Files from Thingiverse
  10. 01:59Problem with .30-06 Rounds and Extraction
  11. 02:24Making Dummy Cartridges Robust
  12. 02:33Comparison to Traditional Dummy Rounds
  13. 02:49DIY Snap Cap Construction (Primer Pocket)
  14. 02:57Limitations of 3D Printed Snap Caps
  15. 03:18Improving 3D Printed Snap Caps
  16. 03:39When Snap Caps are Essential (CZ 52)
  17. 03:50Modern Pistols and Dry Firing
  18. 04:04Caution with .22LR Firearms
  19. 04:26M1 Garand Clip and Dummy Round Demo
  20. 04:48Sound of Practice Ammo on Concrete
  21. 04:72Color Choice for Visibility (Orange)
  22. 04:92Printing Tips: Avoiding Stringing
  23. 05:13Print Settings for Durability
  24. 05:31Conclusion and Channel Outro

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main benefits of 3D printing dummy cartridges?

The primary benefits of 3D printing dummy cartridges are significant cost savings, with rounds costing as little as 10 cents, and increased availability, especially for uncommon or 'oddball' calibers that are hard to find commercially. This makes practice ammunition much more accessible.

How can I make 3D printed dummy cartridges function as effective snap caps?

To make 3D printed dummy cartridges function as snap caps, drill out the primer pocket area and fill it with hot glue. This creates a cushioned surface for the firing pin, protecting it from damage during dry-fire practice. Adding a piece of rubber behind the glue can further enhance cushioning.

What are the recommended print settings for durable 3D printed dummy cartridges?

For durable 3D printed dummy cartridges that can withstand extraction from a firearm, it's recommended to double the wall thickness to 1.5 millimeters. Additionally, ensure the top and bottom sections are completely solid for the first and last five millimeters of the print.

Are there any specific firearms that benefit most from using dummy cartridges for dry-fire practice?

Yes, firearms with known brittle firing pins, such as the CZ 52 pistol, greatly benefit from using dummy cartridges or snap caps during dry-fire practice. This prevents potential damage and costly repairs to the firing pin mechanism.

Related News

All News →

More Gunsmithing & DIY Videos You Might Like

More from DEUCE AND GUNS

View all →