FedEx has refused to ship an AR-15 semi-automatic rifle part-making machine, according to Defense Distributed founder Cody Wilson. The company first gained notoriety when it introduced its line of 3-D printed weapons. Such parts allow gun owners to print pieces to construct a firearm in the comfort of their own home.

Ghost Gunner is a “computer numerical control mill” that permits the owner to utilize accompanying software in order to make AR-15 lower receivers – without the serial numbers which are embedded on pieces sold by commercial manufacturers.

Cody Wilson feels that the refusal to ship the Ghost Gunner Defense Distributed parts illustrates a broader problem in America, a scenario of a “total state mentality.” During an interview with The Blaze Wilson said that his FedEx account executive began questioning the legality of the 3-D gun printing facility in recent weeks. Wilson was reportedly working with FedEx Advantage/NRA Business Alliance to ship the Defense Distributed Ghost Gunner machine. A discount is reportedly offered to clients who ship via the FedEx Advantage alliance.

The Defense Distributed founder also said that he has not been given a formal response from FedEx about the refusal to ship AR-15 related products. The shipping account executive reportedly said that FedEx has “issues” with the 3-D printing machine because it is “unregulated.”

“Maybe they just wanted an excuse to not ship my product,” Cody Wilson said. “It’s just a mill people can have, a tool to make rifles in this country.

It is legal for American citizens to make their own guns without a government license or permit if the firearms will not be used for sale or distribution, unless the individual is prohibited in handling firearms, according to ATF guidelines.

AR-15 semi-automatic rifles are among the most popular rifles with shooters of all ages.

When asked why someone would want to purchase a 3-D gun printing machine like the Ghost Gunner offered by Defense Distributed, Cody Wilson cited a new law related to AR-15 lower receivers. Wilson noted that earlier this year, it became illegal for machine shops or gunsmiths to finish AR-15 lower receivers which are already 80 percent complete. “You now have to own the tool you use to make your lower receiver,” he added.

FedEx spokesman Scott Fiedler told Wired that the shipping company opted against accepting the Ghost Gunner Defense Distributed transportation order because the business is “uncertain at this time whether this device is a regulated commodity by local, state, or federal governments. As such, to ensure we comply with the applicable law and regulations, FedEx declined to ship this device until we know more about how it will be regulated.”

What do you think about FedEx refusing to ship the Ghost Gunner Defense Distributed 3-D printer which allows gun owners to make AR-15 lower receivers at home?

[Images via: Shutterstock.com and Tara Dodrill]