WTXL Interviews Covalent Founder on 3D Printing

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WTXL) – Tuesday, a federal judge issued a temporary restraining order regarding 3D printed guns.

Over the past five years, 3D printing has taken off as a new way to create products.

What’s the buzz behind 3D printing? In the Capital City, companies like Covalent say it’s a faster, more convenient way to make things.

“What used to take tens of thousands of dollars in molds and models to just get one piece can now be done in a day,” said Thomas Jackson, Founder of Covalent.

The downtown digital marketing agency has created different types of products, including prosthetics for children.

When it comes to printing guns, the company doesn’t recommend it.

“It could basically explode in your face as you’re trying to, you know, fire that type of weapon,” said Jackson.

Across town, ImarcsGroup.com, has developed several items as technology becomes more affordable.

“This was a $2,500 printer when we started, and now, one that functions faster and produces a better product costs half that price,” said Robbie Estevez, Web Developer for ImarcsGroup.com.

The company has taken their knowledge to local classrooms, creating musical instruments and encouraging students to get involved.

“If you want to scale the technology, it can go up and the possibilities are really endless,” said Estevez.

While printing guns might not be a possibility right now, it could be down the road. Jackson says just because you can make it doesn’t mean you should.

“It might not be on the first shot. It might not be on the second. But on the third, it could explode, because the material isn’t made to handle bullets,” said Jackson.

The White House press secretary said Wednesday that the Trump administration supports the longstanding law against owning plastic guns.