We're pretty close to "affordable, high resolution, strong parts, pick 2". 5 years ago, "affordable" wasn't even in the cards. "metal" and "affordable" still isn't in the cards, but that's on it's way as well. I don't see a 3d-printer next to the inkjet anytime soon, but a 3d-printer next to the drill press is a current possibility to the serious hobbyist.
I'm planning on picking one up sometime this year for gun-related use. I have a design for a trigger accelerator I'd like to build and zero machining skills. If you don't mind assembling and sourcing some of the parts yourself, you can build an extrusion printer for under $500.
I could see a decent business making truly custom molded grips. Pop in precise hand measurements into the software, fire up the printer and get target grips designed exactly for you.
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