Post by brad on Aug 22, 2014 12:10:18 GMT 10
One of the best tools I think a prepper could buy is a 3D printer! and no I'm not just saying that because I sell them, I'm saying it because it is true. I got into 3D printing a few years ago now and it has become a very good tool that has saved me a lot of money (that is what I tell the wife anyway).
Here are some of the reasons I believe a 3D printer is a preppers best friend:
1. Cost, Printers are getting a lot cheaper now, a good printer will cost you about $2,000 new and about $1,200 second hand. There are cheap ones that go for about $500 however they are not as good and you have to assemble them.
2. Cost to run. It costs me about $60 per kilo of plastic and it lasts a long time, that is retail though, you can make your own for about $25 a kilo (i'm too lazy though).
3. Unlimited prototypes or actual items. You can design what ever you like or just download something to print
4. And this is the main point, because it is freaking awesome.......................
Here are some things you can print and will work fresh off the printer:
I have printed a few of these and handed them out at prepper meetings, I don't think I had any on me at the last one (can't remember) however those who where at the Community prepper meeting would have seen or had been given one. I think this one worked out to be about 50 cents in material to print.
A grinder:
(not the one I printed)
Jet engine: Not really prepping but cool.
Camping Rope Tightener
Lacto Fermentation Lid
There are a couple of things however it is really up to you what you can print. All of these things I have listed where stock models from There are heaps of models here that you can download for free and print.
The plastic I print with is ABS, the same stuff lego is made from, strong durable and cheap. I left my printer in Australia however have arranged for it and my computer to come over. Once it arrives I will finally be able to play again, if there is something you would like printed let me know and I would be happy to print something for you. I would recommend downloading Blender or Sketchup and play around with some designs.
I must admit though I didn't buy the printer for prepping, it was purely a toy and just wanted to play however it turned out to be the best prep tool I have so far. That is until I get a metal 3D printer, then the plastic one will be kicked to the side like a puppy on boxing day.
Here are some of the reasons I believe a 3D printer is a preppers best friend:
1. Cost, Printers are getting a lot cheaper now, a good printer will cost you about $2,000 new and about $1,200 second hand. There are cheap ones that go for about $500 however they are not as good and you have to assemble them.
2. Cost to run. It costs me about $60 per kilo of plastic and it lasts a long time, that is retail though, you can make your own for about $25 a kilo (i'm too lazy though).
3. Unlimited prototypes or actual items. You can design what ever you like or just download something to print
4. And this is the main point, because it is freaking awesome.......................
Here are some things you can print and will work fresh off the printer:
I have printed a few of these and handed them out at prepper meetings, I don't think I had any on me at the last one (can't remember) however those who where at the Community prepper meeting would have seen or had been given one. I think this one worked out to be about 50 cents in material to print.
A grinder:
(not the one I printed)
Jet engine: Not really prepping but cool.
Camping Rope Tightener
Lacto Fermentation Lid
There are a couple of things however it is really up to you what you can print. All of these things I have listed where stock models from There are heaps of models here that you can download for free and print.
The plastic I print with is ABS, the same stuff lego is made from, strong durable and cheap. I left my printer in Australia however have arranged for it and my computer to come over. Once it arrives I will finally be able to play again, if there is something you would like printed let me know and I would be happy to print something for you. I would recommend downloading Blender or Sketchup and play around with some designs.
I must admit though I didn't buy the printer for prepping, it was purely a toy and just wanted to play however it turned out to be the best prep tool I have so far. That is until I get a metal 3D printer, then the plastic one will be kicked to the side like a puppy on boxing day.
