I know zilch about 3D printing. Is it expensive? What if you wanted props for the sake of having props? Like, say, a 3D printed Junkyard Dog Mk. 3 sword (Sol Badguy's current transforming weapon from GGXrd)?
It is cheaper than some methods and more expensive than others.For example this Master Sword by Lloyd Roberts printed in PLA (a common plastic for 3D printing) was quoted between $60 and $200 Canadian on 3dhubs.com. The fancier the material (like resin or wood fill) the higher the price.
If you own a printer then the cost of the machine is pricey, but you will likely be paying less per piece. For example, the master sword above is 560 grams of material, which is about one spool. Higher quality PLA is roughly $50 Canadian a spool, with the lower quality PLA being even less.
You might also find better deals by printing at a makerspace. You could, possibly, even get free or discount printing at your local library if they have machines for public use. Just keep in mind that print times can be lengthy and big projects will likely take you more than one day to fully print.
You also need to factor in what you need for finishing the prop: superglue for gluing the pieces together, (in some cases) a filler, sandpaper and/or a dremel, primer and paint.
What if you wanted props for the sake of having props?
Kevin, who was answering the questions last week, has been printing props for the sake of having props. His collection includes Alice’s knife from Madness Returna and A2′s Type 40 sword from Nier Automata, Mercy’s staff, Widowmaker’s sniper rifle and D.VA’s pistol from Overwatch.
Like, say, a 3D printed Junkyard Dog Mk. 3 sword (Sol Badguy's current transforming weapon from GGXrd)?
You could definitely print that. I couldn’t find a free downloadable model for that weapon so likely you would have to model it yourself or get someone to do it for you. There are people who take commissions for 3D modelling. You could also try contacting dark-minaz who modeled this Junkyard Dog MK III and see if he can help you out.