[Matt Stephenson]

Hi all,

Thanks for all your replies. As you can see from the post date, I toyed (pun intended) with the 3D printed stuff just over a year ago. I did try to arrange a permit through the NSW firearm registry but got nothing but a headache. I attempted to get a permit for a replica vickers and lewis to go into my carrier, under what I was hoping to be a Police Commissioner's permit. No such luck unfortunately. I was promptly told by someone with no idea from the NSW firearms registry that I could rob a bank with something like that.....

When I tried to enlighten them about the logistics of carrying either a Lewis or a Vickers, and that I would render myself unable to carry my ill-gotten loot they then moderated a little. I was then informed that I could have the replicas but I would need to have category 5 safe storage, which basically means a bank vault with a single entry, back to base security and 24hr cctv. No problem I thought, but then it just got silly. Then then proceeded to inform me I must take said non firing replicas to a range twice a year to fire them......

When I then pointed out that these are non-firing replicas I was told that didn't matter and I still had to go to a range. In my frustration I said fine! I'll go to a range and make the appropriate gun noises myself, and when someone sees me doing this, I'll be reported under mental health, and after which the firearms registry will revoke my permit as I've been referred under mental health and therefore I'm no longer fit to hold any type of firearm.....

So what do I do next..... I give up. You just cant fight idiot bureaucracy. I tried to do this legitimately and in accordance with NSW laws. I did for a moment consider moving to Victoria were there is no such problem.

As for kids toys, the only thing like a gun in shops here bears the name NERF. Perhaps I can convince them to make something that resembles both a vickers and a lewis and problem solved. I have seen a nerf gun that does closely resemble a M4 assault rifle on the shop shelves. With just a coat of paint it would make a very convincing replica.....

Until common sense or any semblance or reason prevails I'll just continue working on my carrier.

Rant over.