Feds cracking down on 3D printed machine gun conversion devices in Arizona

PHOENIX (AZ family) — More machine gun conversion devices, commonly known as “firearms and explosives switches,” are showing up at crime scenes across the Valley, according to the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.

Criminals use the coin-sized accessory to convert handguns and rifles into machine guns, firing up to 30 rounds in a matter of seconds.

“I have seen a significant increase just because they are so readily available to produce and purchase,” said ATF Special Agent in Charge Brendan Iber.

The device is illegal and often made on a 3D printer or purchased abroad. Iber says there has been a concerted effort across the country and in Arizona to get dangerous and unpredictable devices off the streets.

In August, an Avondale man was arrested on suspicion of selling Glock switches and drugs to an undercover ATF agent.

“It opens a path of destruction for you. When you have drive-by shootings and things like that, you have no control over it. He just throws a big burst of bullets. It’s very difficult to control,” Iber said.

Iber said that in September, the ATF Phoenix Field Division distributed new training videos to law enforcement agencies in the Valley on how to better detect these devices.

ATF is also working with some unusual partners to educate the community about the dangers of 3D printers, which help make this deadly device more accessible.

“We also visited our libraries in the Valley that have 3D printers. We will also be working with some local schools,” Iber said. “Anyone who has access to a 3D printer, whether at home or elsewhere, can simply download the file from the Internet and print these things.”

Anyone caught in possession of a Glock switch faces up to 10 years in prison.

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