3D gun parts seized on Gold Coast

Police who unearthed a cache of 3D-printed gun parts on the Gold Coast say it's the first time the high-tech weaponry has been seized in Queensland.

Officers found the parts along with cannabis plants, a loaded sawn-off rifle and knuckle dusters at a Mudgeeraba residence on Tuesday morning.

The 3D components were not assembled, but Detective Inspector Scott Knowles said they would have been enough to make up to "four considerable firearms".

He said police were now looking for the printer that made the parts, and would try to determine whether it was the source of a wider distribution network.

Firearms made with 3D printers could pose a greater danger to the shooter than the target, Det Insp Knowles said.

"You've got every likelihood that it's going to blow up in your hands," he said.

A 28-year-old man was charged with drugs and weapons offences following the raid.

He is expected to appear before the Southport Magistrates Court later this month.