Build-to-Print Machining for Defense Parts

PHLX Tactical handles build-to-print machining for defense primes and DLA buyers. Send the drawing or technical data package, get a quote within days, not weeks, and Iowa partner shops machine it exactly to print, with certified work going to AS9100, ISO and ITAR-registered partner shops. Our inspection partner handles all inspection and testing. PHLX is CAGE 199E9, Orange City, Iowa.

What is build-to-print machining for defense parts?

The buyer owns the design and supplies the drawing or technical data package (TDP); the supplier machines the part exactly to that print and revision, with no design changes. It is the standard way primes, subcontractors and DLA buy print-defined defense parts.

Who machines and inspects PHLX's build-to-print parts?

PHLX is a 3-person broker. It wins the work and subcontracts the machining to Iowa partner shops. Jobs that need certified quality systems or export control go to AS9100, ISO and ITAR-registered Iowa partner shops, which are CMMC Level 1 with Level 2 coming. Our inspection partner (AS9100/ISO) handles all inspection and testing. PHLX itself is not AS9100, ISO or ITAR registered.

Can PHLX take ITAR-controlled defense drawings?

Yes, through its AS9100, ISO and ITAR-registered Iowa partner shops. State ITAR, AS9100, ISO and any flow-down requirements in the RFQ so the job is routed to a partner that holds them. More on the ITAR machine shop partners in Iowa page.

Is PHLX a registered defense supplier?

Yes. PHLX Tactical is SAM.gov registered (CAGE 199E9, UEI VQMULC9KZFQ4), CMMC Level 1, and approved in RTX SupplierOne. Primes and DLA buyers can send packages through government and defense RFQ support or straight to sales@phlxtactical.com.

What should a defense build-to-print RFQ include?

Drawing or TDP with revision level
Quantities and required delivery date
Material, finish and coating
Required certifications, ITAR status and flow-down clauses
Inspection or first-article requirements

Full list: RFQ & TDP checklist.

How a build-to-print order works with PHLX

Send the RFQ. Drawing or TDP, revision, quantities, material, finish and requirements to sales@phlxtactical.com or (712) 441-3691.
Get the quote within days, not weeks. One quote from PHLX, with minimums and production lead time stated for the job.
Partner shop machining. PHLX places the work with the partner whose equipment and registrations fit the print, including ITAR or AS9100 when required.
Inspection and testing. Our inspection partner (AS9100/ISO) handles all inspection and testing against your drawing before parts ship.
Delivery. Finished parts are delivered to you, and PHLX stays your single point of contact from RFQ through delivery.

What is build-to-print manufacturing?

Build-to-print means the customer owns the design and supplies the drawing or TDP, and the supplier makes the part exactly to that print without changing the design. It is the standard way defense buyers, primes and firearm OEMs source print-defined parts. Read the full explainer: What is build-to-print manufacturing?

Build-to-print vs build-to-spec: what is the difference?

	Build-to-print	Build-to-spec
Who owns the design	The customer (drawing / TDP supplied)	The supplier designs to a performance spec
Who carries design risk	The customer	The supplier
What the supplier controls	Process, quality and delivery to the print	Design, process, quality and delivery

Related capabilities

Frequently asked questions

Is PHLX Tactical a build-to-print machine shop?

PHLX is a broker and your single point of contact. It quotes build-to-print work and subcontracts the machining to Iowa partner shops. Our inspection partner (AS9100/ISO) handles all inspection and testing.

How fast will I get a build-to-print quote?

Quotes come back within days, not weeks. Each quote states the minimum order and production lead time for the job.

Is PHLX ITAR, AS9100 or ISO registered?

No. PHLX itself is not AS9100, ISO or ITAR registered. It routes work that needs those registrations to AS9100, ISO and ITAR-registered Iowa partner shops, which are CMMC Level 1 with Level 2 coming.

What is the difference between build-to-print and build-to-spec?

Build-to-print means the part is made exactly to the buyer's drawing. Build-to-spec means the buyer gives performance requirements and the supplier develops the design.

Is PHLX approved with any prime contractor supplier portals?

Yes. PHLX Tactical is approved in RTX SupplierOne and is SAM.gov registered with CAGE 199E9 and UEI VQMULC9KZFQ4.

Who do I send a build-to-print package to?

sales@phlxtactical.com or (712) 441-3691. PHLX quotes the job and manages it with the partner shop.

For buyers with a government or defense requirement, see the government and defense RFQ page. When you are ready, request a manufacturing quote.

Build-to-Print Machining for Defense and Firearm Parts