The Apple Fritter
Overview
Dive into the innovative world of 3D printing with The Apple Fritter, a cutting-edge design for a pump action AR-15 rifle or pistol. This downloadable file, presented by The Gatalog, offers an improved iteration of the Apple Pie, blending creativity and functionality for firearms enthusiasts and DIY builders.
The Apple Fritter is crafted to be a fun and straightforward project, utilizing parts you might already have at home. It’s perfect for those looking to explore custom firearm builds with a unique twist. Join the vibrant community at thegatalog.com to share your progress and gain insights from fellow makers.
The Apple Fritter Features
The Apple Fritter stands out with its pump action mechanism, providing a distinctive shooting experience compared to traditional AR-15 designs. This improved version offers enhanced usability and customization options for both rifle and pistol configurations.
Key highlights include:
- Barrel Length Flexibility: Recommended barrel lengths range from 7.5 to 10.5 inches for the Fritter, while the Pie variant supports 11 inches and up, with a full-length handguard at 12 inches.
- Handguard Compatibility: Barrel lengths are named after the handguard pieces, ensuring a seamless fit if you match or exceed the specified length for safety.
- Grip Comfort: For users opting for beer brat style grips, an 8-inch or longer barrel is advised for comfortable handling.
This design prioritizes safety and customization, ensuring builders can tailor their project to personal preferences while adhering to recommended guidelines.
Difficulty & Build Time
- Skill Level: Intermediate
- Estimated Build Time: 10-15 hours
- Required Experience: Basic knowledge of AR-15 components and 3D printing; familiarity with firearm safety and assembly is recommended.
Hardware and Tools Required
Required Hardware
- AR-15 compatible parts (may already be available to builders)
- Barrel (7.5-10.5 inches for Fritter; 11 inches and up for Pie)
- Handguard pieces matching or exceeding barrel length for safety
Recommended Tools
- 3D printer for printing components
- Standard firearm assembly tools (wrenches, screwdrivers)
- Safety equipment (gloves, eye protection)
- Finishing tools for post-print cleanup (sandpaper, files)
The Apple Fritter Parts
The Apple Fritter includes downloadable STL files for creating a pump action AR-15 rifle or pistol, designed by 3D Arms and Middleton Made. These files cover essential components tailored for the unique pump action mechanism and customizable handguard configurations. For optimal results, print with high infill settings (50-75%) to ensure durability under stress.
We recommend using strong materials like PETG or ABS to withstand the mechanical demands of a firearm build. Pay attention to barrel and handguard alignment during printing to avoid fitment issues. Detailed assembly instructions are available in the provided PDF guide at this link.
Printer Compatibility & Settings
The Apple Fritter files are compatible with most FDM 3D printers capable of handling detailed and durable prints. Recommended materials include PETG or ABS for their strength and heat resistance, crucial for firearm components. PLA is not advised due to its lower durability.
Suggested print settings include a layer height of 0.2-0.3mm, 50-75% infill for structural integrity, and supports enabled for complex geometries. Ensure your printer bed is leveled and use adequate cooling to prevent warping. Test prints of smaller components are recommended to fine-tune settings before committing to larger parts.
Conclusion
The Apple Fritter offers a thrilling opportunity for 3D printing and firearms enthusiasts to build a unique pump action AR-15 with customizable features. Its thoughtful design, safety considerations, and community support through The Gatalog make it an exciting project for intermediate builders. Download the files, follow the assembly guide, and join the conversation at thegatalog.com to showcase your build!
