The upcoming problematic of 3D-printed firearms: analysis of European news reports

Abstract

Background: Initially emerging in North America, 3D-printed firearms have become a growing security concern in Europe. The increasing availability of open-source blueprints, as well as accessibility to 3D printers and improved composite materials, have enabled individuals to manufacture firearms with minimal control or technical expertise. Their danger lies in the rapid and unregulated nature of production, complicating law enforcement and regulatory agencies’ efforts to track and control their spread. The European Union acknowledged the issue in its Action Plan on Firearms Trafficking (2020–2025), emphasizing the need to monitor new technologies and the potential for their misuse by terrorist and criminal groups [1]. Objective: To identify European news agencies' reports on 3D-printed firearms attacks and apprehensions, elucidating the characteristics of suspects and 3D-printed. Methods: Data was collected from European news agencies and the report from the Third Constructive Dialogue on Firearms held by the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organized Crime [1]. The cases span from 2017 to 2025. A mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative and qualitative analyses, was employed. Results: In a total of 16 3D-printed firearms' apprehensions across 12 European countries (e.g., Germany [1], the Netherlands [1], Sweden [1,2], the United Kingdom [1,3], Finland [1,4] and Spain [1,5]) law enforcement agencies seized fully assembled 3D-printed firearms, 3D-printed accessories and parts, 3D-printers, firearm parts, fully functional firearms, converted firearms, ammunitions, blueprints for firearm models and an array of far-right extremist and Nazi memorabilia. Among the seized firearms, the most common type of firearm is the PKC (parts kit completion), a 3D-printed firearm made with a 3D-printed receiver (or frame) and multiple commercially available, factory-made parts for the pressure-bearing components [1-5]. Conclusions: The seized far-right items demonstrate an increased interest in this type of weapon by extremist groups [1], due to the ease of its access and production. To tackle this trend, European authorities have updated legislative frameworks, namely by the EU Firearms Directive, to address the risks of 3D-printed firearms. Also, operational measures, such as Europol/Cepol-led conferences, awareness campaigns, and coordinated cross-border law enforcement actions, have been implemented to improve detection, prevention, and response to their production and use.