I was curious so did a bit of research. Sharing if other folks are curious as well.
TL;DR: minus $199 printer, filament and common tools you surely have, roughly $155 and 4-6 days.
The GataLog PRESENTS. FGC-9 mk II Powered by weaponized autism™. 1. Published by The GataLog April 16 th , 2021. Document version: 1.4. Author of this document:. JStark1809 E-Mail:
[email protected]. Co-Designers of the FGC-9 MkII:. JStark1809 IvanTheTroll 3socksandcrocs Website: h ...
www.docdroid.net
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The total cost to assemble an FGC-9 Mk II from scratch can vary widely depending on several factors, including where you source your parts, the type of 3D printer and filament you use, the tools you already have, and the quality of the components you purchase. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated costs for each category:
1. 3D Printer and Filament:
• 3D Printer: A basic 3D printer capable of printing parts for the FGC-9 Mk II can cost between $200 to $500. Popular options include the Creality Ender 3 or Prusa Mini.
• Filament: PLA+ or PETG filament is generally recommended. A 1kg spool costs about $20 to $40. You may need 1-2 spools, so approximately $40 to $80 for filament.
2. Metal Components and Parts:
• Barrel Material (Steel Tubing): A length of 9mm barrel blank (seamless steel tubing) may cost around $20 to $50, depending on the supplier and quality.
• Bolt Material (Steel Stock): Steel rods or flat bars for the bolt can cost around $10 to $30.
• Firing Pin Material: A piece of hardened steel rod or drill rod, approximately $5 to $15.
• Recoil Spring Assembly: A suitable recoil spring and guide rod might cost around $10 to $20.
• Steel Rails: Small pieces of steel for guide rails, $5 to $10.
3. Hardware Store Parts:
• Screws, Bolts, Nuts, and Washers: Approximately $10 to $20 total for various sizes.
• Springs: Additional springs (for the magazine catch, etc.) around $5 to $15.
• Drill Rods/Metal Rods: Various small metal parts, $5 to $10.
4. Electrochemical Machining Supplies (for rifling the barrel):
• DC Power Supply: A basic power supply for electrochemical machining can cost around $30 to $60.
• Miscellaneous Supplies: Electrolyte solution, electrodes, wires, etc., around $20 to $40.
5. Magazines and Ammunition:
• Glock-Compatible Magazine: Prices vary, but a basic Glock 17 magazine usually costs around $15 to $30 each.
• 9mm Ammunition: Prices fluctuate, but expect to spend around $20 to $40 for a box of 50 rounds for testing.
6. Optional Tools and Accessories:
• Basic Hand Tools: If you don’t already own basic tools (e.g., files, hacksaw, calipers), these could cost $50 to $100.
• Adhesives and Epoxy: High-strength epoxy and adhesives, approximately $10 to $20.
• Sights, Grips, etc.: Optional accessories can range from $20 to $50.
Estimated Total Cost:
Category Estimated Cost Range
3D Printer and Filament $240 - $580
Metal Components and Parts $55 - $125
Hardware Store Parts $20 - $45
Electrochemical Machining Supplies $50 - $100
Magazines and Ammunition $35 - $70
Optional Tools and Accessories $50 - $100
Total Estimated Cost: $450 - $1,020
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Excluding the common tools (like files, hacksaws, and calipers), the 3D printer itself, and the filament, the cost to assemble an **FGC-9 Mk II** primarily involves the purchase of metal components, hardware store parts, supplies for electrochemical machining, magazines, and ammunition.
Total Estimated Cost: $155 - $340.
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The time required to manufacture an FGC-9 Mk II using a recommended 3D printer, such as the Creality Ender 3 or Prusa Mini, involves several steps, including 3D printing the parts, preparing the metal components, assembling the firearm, and rifling the barrel (if you choose to make your own). Here’s a breakdown of the time required for each stage:
1. 3D Printing the Parts:
The FGC-9 Mk II consists of several 3D-printed components, such as the upper and lower receivers, grip, magazine, and various small parts. The print time will vary based on the printer settings (e.g., layer height, infill density) and the speed of your printer.
• Estimated Time for 3D Printing:
• Main Components (Receivers, Grip, Stock, Magazine): 60-100 hours
• Additional Smaller Parts (Sights, Trigger, etc.): 10-20 hours
Total 3D Printing Time: 70-120 hours
Factors affecting print time:
• Layer Height: A smaller layer height (e.g., 0.2mm) provides more detail and strength but increases print time.
• Infill Density: Higher infill density (e.g., 40-50%) increases durability but also increases print time.
• Print Speed: Depending on the printer, print speed settings, and complexity of parts, actual times may vary.
2. Preparing Metal Components:
Preparing the metal parts includes cutting and shaping steel tubing for the barrel, fabricating the bolt, firing pin, and guide rods, and preparing the recoil spring assembly. If you are rifling your own barrel, this step will also include the electrochemical machining process.
• Cutting and Shaping Metal Parts:
• Bolt, Rails, Firing Pin, and Other Metal Parts: 5-10 hours (depending on tools and experience)
• Barrel Rifling (Electrochemical Machining):
• This process can take 5-10 hours depending on the method, power supply, and skill level.
Total Time for Metal Preparation: 10-20 hours
3. Assembly Time:
Assembling the FGC-9 Mk II involves fitting the printed parts with the metal components, installing the springs, assembling the bolt and firing mechanisms, and performing any necessary adjustments or reinforcements.
• Estimated Assembly Time: 5-10 hours
Total Estimated Time for Manufacturing:
Combining all the steps:
Task Estimated Time Range
3D Printing 70-120 hours
Preparing Metal Components 10-20 hours
Assembly 5-10 hours
Total Time Required: 85-150 hours (Approximately 4 to 6 days of continuous work)
Additional Considerations:
• Skill Level: If you have experience with 3D printing, metalworking, and general fabrication, the time could be on the lower end of the range. For beginners, expect to spend more time on each step.
• Calibration and Setup: The time required includes an assumption that the 3D printer is correctly calibrated and in working order. Initial setup, calibration, and troubleshooting of the printer can add several hours, especially for those new to 3D printing.
• Breaks and Downtime: The estimates do not include downtime for cooling, resting, or addressing potential print errors (e.g., failed prints, jams). Expect additional time for any unforeseen issues.
Summary:
To manufacture an FGC-9 Mk II from scratch using a recommended 3D printer, you should plan for 85 to 150 hours (about 4 to 6 days), factoring in all the stages from printing to assembly.