Gun Obsessed Man Jailed for 3D Printing Handgun

A man identified as David Boylett, 62, has been sentenced to four-and-a-half years imprisonment for 3D-printing a handgun. The National Crime Agency (NCA) arrested Boylett at his home in Telford, Shropshire, in July 2021. Investigators found that he was only 15 minutes away from making the firearm fully functional. His home also contained numerous firearm parts, tools, and two 3D printers.

Boylett had pleaded guilty to charges including attempting to possess a prohibited firearm component and possessing a firearm and ammunition without a certificate. His computer and memory card displayed an intense obsession with guns, featuring extensive documents on firearm conversion, ammunition manufacturing, and 3D printing techniques. Instructional videos for the seized gun model were also found on his computer.

NCA firearms experts confirmed that the files discovered could have been used to print the remaining parts needed to complete the weapon. They also successfully test-fired the weapon. In addition to the 3D-printed components, a powerful air rifle, ammunition, and a part from a stolen shotgun were confiscated. The NCA highlighted the potential harm Boylett's creations could have caused.

Senior investigating officer Niall Conner noted the depth of Boylett's research and intent. The seized shotgun part was stolen from a vehicle in Herefordshire in April 2012. The investigation revealed Boylett's continuous efforts to create deadly weapons.