Does anyone have experience with SDI? (fosscad.io)

submitted 1 month ago by noah@fosscad.io to c/ark@fosscad.io

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Originally posted by u/IHitCircle at 2025-06-30T12:59:30Z

Kind of an oddball question, but it fits here, I think?

My main interest is that I want to be able to use CAD/3D modeling to design firearm frames and things of that nature, and then also be able to take those 3D printed prototypes eventually to metal (maybe).

Does anyone know if SDI would be a good option to learn those skills? Or are there other courses/schools I could look into to get better at the 3D modeling side of things? I’ve heard from a few sources that say SDI is a sham for learning real gun smithing, but I really am more interested in learning online the CAD side of things, and then maybe learning the actual manufacturing part later.

A bit of background, I’ve been 3D designing for a while(1-2 years), I started modeling my woodworking projects and now moved to designing 3D printed stuff. I’m currently active duty, so the school would be free, it would just take up more of my time. TIA!

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[-] noah@fosscad.io 1 points 1 month ago

u/K1RBY87 · 2025-06-30 13:15:44 UTC · score 6

JFC...no bro...hell no. Did you even look at their fucking syllabus?

SDI, and MGS for that matter, is designed to separate fools from their money. The degree ain't worth shit, they don't even offer you any career/job placement. I've seen their curriculum first hand from a soldier going through the program - it's trash. You can learn everything there, and more, online for free.

Not bullshitting save your TA and GI Bill for something that's actually useful. Go to the local community college and take machining classes, welding classes, and engineering classes. 3D design/cad is more likely to fall under their school of arts these days since drafting as a career field is basically disappearing.

this post was submitted on 12 Oct 2025

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