CNC & Machining

The latest DIY ideas, techniques and tools for the manufacture of metal, wood, plastic, ceramic and composites. We talk about machining, using a lathe to machine metals like steel, brass, and aluminium. We make chips fly!

3D-Printed Gun Fires Real Bullets

The folks over at Defense Distributed, the home of the Wiki Weapon Project, have successfully fired an AR-15 semi-automatic rifle with a 3D-printed lower receiver. They were able to fire off only six rounds before the part failed, but some would consider that a pretty decent outcome considering it’s composed of printed plastic. Now, the entire gun is not printed–just the lower receiver (the regulated part), but it’s a good first step. Regardless of you stance on gun control (or conceptual lack thereof), this project is worth keeping an eye on.

Continue Reading Adam Flaherty172
Massoud Hassani’s Mine Kafon

Massoud Hassani’s Mine Kafon

Built using simple materials like bamboo and biodegradable plastic, Massoud Hassani’s Mine Kafons are kinetic sculptures that save lives. Carried by the wind, the tumbling dandelion-shaped orbs cover large swaths of land scattered with abandoned land mines. As the plastic pads that cover its outer surface detonates the ordnance, the device absorbs the impact of the blast with minimal damage.

Continue Reading Adam Flaherty36
DiResta: Skull Ring

DiResta: Skull Ring

Jimmy wants a ring that makes an impression. Jimmy gets out the wax, a hobby knife, and a Dremel tool and sets to work.

In each bi-monthly episode of DiResta (every other Wednesday at 2pm PT), artist and master builder Jimmy DiResta (“Dirty Money,” “Hammered,” “Against the Grain,” “Trash for Cash”) lets us into his workshop, to look over his shoulder while he builds whatever strikes his fancy.

More details here: http://blog.makezine.com/2012/09/14/diresta-skull-ring/ ‎

Continue Reading Jimmydiresta
DiResta: Heart Key

DiResta: Heart Key

In this episode of DiResta, Jimmy gets all sentimental and makes a heart key for a particularly big-hearted friend.

In each bi-monthly episode of DiResta (every other Wednesday at 2pm PT), artist and master builder Jimmy DiResta (“Dirty Money,” “Hammered,” “Against the Grain,” “Trash for Cash”) lets us into his workshop, to look over his shoulder while he builds whatever strikes his fancy.

For more details on the build, check out the MAKE post: http://blog.makezine.com/2012/10/03/diresta-heart-ring/

And look for new episodes of DiResta every other Wednesday at 2pm Pacific/5pm Eastern.

Continue Reading Jimmydiresta