Drone Racing & 3D Printing in Eastern North Carolina: A Growing Hobby for Makers and Pilots

Have you ever wondered what happens when two exciting hobbies come together?

The answer is FPV drone racing and 3D printing.

Across Eastern North Carolina, more people are discovering that building, repairing, and customizing drones with a 3D printer is one of the most rewarding ways to combine creativity, engineering, and outdoor fun. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced maker, there’s never been a better time to get involved.

What Is FPV Drone Racing?

FPV (First Person View) drone racing puts you in the pilot’s seat. Wearing special goggles, you see exactly what the drone’s camera sees while racing through gates, around obstacles, and across challenging courses.

Unlike camera drones used for photography, FPV racing drones are designed for speed, agility, and customization. Since crashes are simply part of learning, many pilots rely on their 3D printers to quickly replace broken parts instead of waiting for new ones to arrive in the mail.

Why 3D Printing Is Essential for Drone Pilots

One of the biggest advantages of owning a 3D printer is the ability to design and print replacement parts whenever you need them.

Popular 3D-printed drone accessories include:

• Camera mounts

• GoPro mounts

• GPS holders

• Antenna mounts

• Propeller guards

• Battery protectors

• Landing skids

• Drone display stands

• Tool organizers

• Transmitter holders

• Portable race gates

• Custom cases for drone electronics

  
  

Many of these parts can be printed in under an hour, making 3D printing one of the best investments a drone enthusiast can make.

Where Can You Race Drones in North Carolina?

One of the easiest ways to find races is through MultiGP, the world’s largest FPV drone racing organization. Their website lists local chapters, race schedules, pilot rankings, and beginner-friendly events throughout the United States.

Visit the MultiGP Find Local Races & Chapters

page to discover upcoming events near you.

One of North Carolina’s most popular competitions is the Raptor Drone Race in Hoffman, NC. Pilots from around the Southeast travel there to compete, learn new skills, and meet other drone enthusiasts.

Even if you’re brand new to FPV flying, many races welcome beginners and provide a great opportunity to learn from experienced pilots.

Drone Soccer Is Taking Off

Not interested in racing? Drone Soccer is another rapidly growing drone sport.

Pilots fly lightweight drones protected by spherical cages while working together as teams to score goals inside an enclosed arena. Schools, colleges, and youth organizations across the country are beginning to adopt Drone Soccer because it teaches teamwork, STEM concepts, and flying skills in a safe environment.

Why Eastern North Carolina Is Perfect for Drone Enthusiasts

Eastern North Carolina is an excellent place to enjoy both drones and 3D printing. Communities such as Jacksonville, Richlands, Hubert, Sneads Ferry, Swansboro, New Bern, Morehead City, Greenville, Wilmington, and Kinston have growing populations of makers, engineers, military families, hobbyists, students, and entrepreneurs.

With Camp Lejeune and MCAS New River nearby, many local residents already have interests in aviation, engineering, robotics, and emerging technology. As these hobbies continue to grow, we hope to see more drone clubs, flying events, and maker meetups throughout the region.

How ENC3D Can Help

At ENC3D, we enjoy helping local makers bring their ideas to life. Whether you’re printing drone accessories, replacement parts, RC airplane components, robotics projects, cosplay props, or custom creations, we’re proud to provide quality 3D printing filament with convenient local pickup.

We currently serve customers throughout:

• Jacksonville

• Camp Lejeune

• Richlands

• Hubert

• Sneads Ferry

• Maysville

• Swansboro

  
  

If you’re just getting started with 3D printing, we’re always happy to answer questions about filament for your upcoming projects. We believe the local maker community grows stronger when people share ideas and help one another succeed.

Join the Eastern North Carolina Maker Community

Whether your passion is drone racing, RC aircraft, robotics, STEM education, or 3D printing, there has never been a better time to learn something new. We hope this is just the beginning of a larger maker movement here in Eastern North Carolina—and we’d love for you to be part of it.

If you’re looking for quality filament with local pickup, have questions about your printer, or simply want to talk about your next project, ENC3D is here to help.

Visit us at ENC3D.com, follow us on Facebook at Jacksonville NC 3D Printing Filament Supply, or send us a message to reserve filament for local pickup. We look forward to meeting fellow makers throughout Eastern North Carolina!