COVID-22 3D Printable 22lr Pistol

Overview

Dive into the innovative world of DIY firearms with the COVID-22 3D Printable 22lr Pistol, a unique design by Baconman121 and DirtEater, brought to you by The Gatalog. This downloadable file offers enthusiasts a chance to craft their own functional .22lr pistol using 3D printing technology, blending creativity with practicality.

The COVID-22 V3 is designed for hobbyists passionate about firearms and 3D printing, providing a detailed build guide and assembly resources to ensure a successful project. Its purpose is to empower users to create a compact, custom pistol while learning valuable skills in assembly and customization. Whether you're a seasoned builder or a curious newcomer, this design offers an exciting challenge with rewarding results.

COVID-22 3D Printable 22lr Pistol Features

The COVID-22 3D Printable 22lr Pistol stands out with its fully printable core components, allowing for a high degree of customization and accessibility. This design prioritizes simplicity without sacrificing functionality, making it a great choice for DIY firearm enthusiasts.

Key highlights include:

Compact Design: Tailored for a .22lr caliber, ensuring a lightweight and manageable build.
Comprehensive Build Guide: Includes a detailed PDF and assembly video for step-by-step instructions.
Community Support: Backed by The Gatalog community at thegatalog.com, offering a platform for tips and shared experiences.

This pistol is engineered for those who value innovation in firearm design, with parts like the barrel latch and striker meticulously crafted for reliability. Whether for educational purposes or personal projects, the COVID-22 delivers a unique hands-on experience.

Difficulty & Build Time

Skill Level: Intermediate
Estimated Build Time: 12-16 hours
Required Experience: Basic knowledge of 3D printing and familiarity with hand tools like drills and grinders; prior experience with firearm assembly is beneficial but not mandatory.

Hardware and Tools Required

Required Hardware

.22 Barrel Liner: Essential for the pistol’s functionality (pre-chambered liner recommended).
2x Mechanical Pencil Springs: Used for internal mechanisms.
5/16 (8mm) Steel Rod: Serves as the barrel pivot.
3/16 Steel Rod: Required for structural integrity.
1/8 Drill Bit: For precise drilling tasks during assembly.

Recommended Tools

Dremel or Angle Grinder: For shaping and finishing parts.
Drill Press (or Hand Drill): For accurate drilling; hand drill requires confidence in precision.
Lighter or Heating Element: For minor heat adjustments during assembly.
3D Printer: Necessary for printing the pistol components.
Drill Bit Set (5/16, 1/8, 3/16, No.1): For various drilling and chamber reaming tasks (No.1 only if liner isn’t pre-chambered).

COVID-22 3D Printable 22lr Pistol Parts

The downloadable file for the COVID-22 3D Printable 22lr Pistol includes a variety of STL files for essential components such as the Barrel, Frame, Trigger, Sear, Barrel Latch, Barrel Latch Housing, Striker, and Charging Handle. Additionally, it provides jigs like the Barrel Liner Press Jig, Striker Drill Jig, Breech Face Go/No Go Gauge, Breech Face Drilling Jig, and Breech Face Example Template to assist in precise assembly. These files are designed to ensure every piece fits together seamlessly when printed correctly.

For optimal results, use a strong filament like eSun PLA+ as recommended in the build guide. Pay attention to layer adhesion and infill density (suggesting 100% infill for critical parts like the frame and barrel) to maintain structural integrity. Special care should be taken to avoid warping during printing, especially for larger components.

Printer Compatibility & Settings

The COVID-22 3D Printable 22lr Pistol is compatible with most consumer-grade FDM 3D printers capable of handling detailed prints. Recommended materials include PLA+ (eSun PLA+ specifically mentioned) for its strength and ease of use, though more durable options like PETG could be considered for added resilience. Ensure your printer bed is leveled and supports a build volume sufficient for the larger frame components.

Suggested print settings include a 0.2mm layer height for detail, 100% infill for critical structural parts, and adequate cooling to prevent deformation. A heated bed (around 60°C for PLA+) is advised to improve adhesion. Always double-check the build guide PDF for any specific printer-related tips tailored to this design.

Conclusion

The COVID-22 3D Printable 22lr Pistol offers an unparalleled opportunity to merge 3D printing with firearm craftsmanship, delivering a rewarding project for enthusiasts. With comprehensive resources like the build guide and assembly video, builders can confidently tackle this intermediate-level design. Join the vibrant community at thegatalog.com to share your progress, gain insights, and take your DIY skills to the next level.