Quote Originally Posted by djprinter View Post
3d printers are not a good solution for production, if you're creating very small runs (less than 6), then it may make sense. Typically one would print the part and then create a mold from it for producing more.

As for quality, with a quality FDM printer you should get what you need with some finishing on the part (sanding, and acetone smoothing). The ultimaker 2 is widely considered the gold standard for home-use FDM printers, but you could also get what you need out of the flashforge creator for less than half the price.
Thank you for the detailed response! I may be expecting more than the technology is ready for at this time. Still would be fun to experiment and get involved with it even if it isn't quite ready just yet.