Hey Everyone,

I have been eyeballing 3D printers for way too long. It's time for me to get off the fence.

The ability to print firearms/parts is what finally got me moving. I would like to tinker with things like the G17 frame and the FBGC-9.

I am about to pull the trigger on an Ender 3. I am trying to decide between the basic 3 and the 3 v2. Do I need the upgrades getting started or will the basic Ender 3 work just as well for a beginner?

Maybe I should ask first if the Ender 3 is the smart choice for printing Freedom Sticks?

What filament would you recommend for easy/good printing for a beginner on a budget? How about the "best" type and brand of filament for printing accurate and rugged prints for frames, receivers etc?

Thanks Everyone!

Ender 3 is the "recommended" noob printer, not sure the version/model though - I have the Ender 3 Pro that I have upgraded some.

I would suggest getting Ender3 v2, then get the metal extruder from Amazon.

As for filament, get some Hatchbox PLA to practice with, then for the freedom sticks, get eSun PLA+.  Both should be available on Amazon for about $22.

Thank you.

I will get some ordered up.

Regarding the extruder upgrade, is there one in particular that you would recommend? I searched Amazon and found quite a selection.

Thanks again.

Pick a color

Actually there is one that is just a smidge better IMHO. It has the larger connector fitting.

http://amazon.com/Upgraded-Creality-Extruder-Drive1-75mm-Filament/dp/B07WHYBVJ5


As for other reading material check this. Steps 1-6 should answer a bunch of questions you may have for printing pew pew stuff.

https://ctrlpew.com/the-complete-getting-started-guide  gonna leave that link cold now that I think of it.  

I got the Winsinn extruder it is the dual gear type and will pull the foreskin off a flea.  I also adjusted the E steps and my prints are coming out perfect.  I'm on the sixth Vanguard lower.