Who This Page Is For

This guide is written for first-time 3D printer owners as well as experienced users who are accustomed to slicing STL files themselves. HM3D models are not printed like typical 3D files, and following this guide is critical to achieving the strength, weight, and flight performance our aircraft are designed for.

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How HM3D Files Are Different

Most 3D printed RC models available for download provide STL files and expect users to slice them on their own. HM3D does not do this.

Instead, we provide fully prepared G-code files, sliced in Simplify3D using advanced techniques that optimize strength, weight, and structural integrity. Re-slicing our models is not recommended and will almost always result in weaker, heavier, or failed prints.

Our G-code files are sliced specifically for your exact printer and are quality-checked to ensure accuracy and consistency.

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⚠️ Important: HM3D models are designed to be printed using the provided G-code files only. Re-slicing is not recommended and can result in failed or unsafe parts.

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Why We Use G-code Instead of STL Files

HM3D aircraft are engineered using advanced slicing techniques that go beyond what standard STL-based workflows can deliver. Our designs rely on highly controlled extrusion paths, specialized wall strategies, and a true vase-style printing method with adjustable top-layer control.

At this time, this specific capability is only available in Simplify3D and is not offered by any free or consumer slicers. While other slicers can mimic aspects of vase mode, they cannot reproduce this behavior with the precision required for optimal strength, surface quality, and weight.

For this reason, HM3D provides fully prepared G-code files and strongly recommends printing them exactly as supplied.

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Recommended Printer: Bambu Lab P1 Series

This guide focuses on the Bambu P1 series. Our G-code files are tested and validated specifically on these machines to ensure predictable extrusion, cooling, and reliable layer bonding.

While many other printers are available, HM3D provides printer-specific G-code, which is why this guide centers on the Bambu P1. If you would like to see guides for other printers such as Ender or Creality, please send us a message and let us know.

For this tutorial, we will focus on the Bambu P1.

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Where to Buy a Bambu P1

If you don’t have a printer yet, we recommend the Bambu Lab P1 series for the best experience with HM3D G-code. You can purchase a Bambu P1 directly from Bambu Lab’s official store or from authorized retailers.

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Tip for beginners: The P1S is a great choice if you want an enclosed printer for more consistent printing with a wider range of materials.

👉 Buy the Bambu P1 Series here: https://amzn.to/44QCJb5

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Before You Print

If you are new to 3D printing, you do not need to understand slicing to print HM3D models.

You do not need to:

• Adjust slicer settings

• Import STL files

You do need:

• A properly assembled printer

• Dry filament

• A clean build plate

If your printer can successfully print standard test models, you are ready.

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Step-by-Step: Printing HM3D G-code on a Bambu P1

1. Download the G-code File

• Download the exact G-code file provided by HM3D for your printer

• Do not rename or modify the file

2. Load the G-code onto an SD Card

• Copy the G-code file to a microSD card

• Safely eject the card from your computer

3. Load Filament

• Install the filament type specified in the product documentation

• Ensure filament is dry and properly loaded

4. Insert the SD Card into the Printer

• Insert the microSD card into the Bambu P1

• Use the printer’s touchscreen to navigate to the file

5. Start the Print from the Printer

• Select the G-code file from the SD card

• Start the print directly from the printer interface

Do not adjust speed, flow, cooling, or other print parameters unless specifically instructed.

 

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Why This Method Is Required

HM3D G-code is generated in Simplify3D using advanced slicing techniques that are not compatible with Bambu Studio’s workflow. Attempting to load or resend this G-code through Bambu Studio may fail or result in the file being rejected.

Printing directly from the printer ensures:

• The G-code is executed exactly as intended

• No automatic changes are applied

• Print behavior remains consistent and validated

HM3D G-code files are printed directly from the printer via SD card, not through Bambu Studio.

 

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Troubleshooting & Support

If you experience issues, first verify that the correct G-code was used and that your filament is dry. If problems persist, please contact HM3D support or reach out to the community for assistance.

 

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Final Takeaway

We hope this guide answered your questions and helped you feel confident getting started. Our goal was to make this process as simple and approachable as possible for both beginners and experienced users alike.

If you need additional help or have questions along the way, please reach out through the site chat or email — we’re glad to help and happy to have you in the community.

 

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Affiliate Disclosure

This post may contain affiliate links. If you use these links to make a purchase, HM3D may earn a commission at no additional cost to you.