Well said xenophon!
I believe that currently the polymers used with 3D printing are not as useful as they could potentially be property wise. Over time better polymers will be used meaning the parts created will be more practical.
There are so many 'mini' 3D printers coming out that are aimed for 'home use' but I don't feel the quality is there yet for the price you pay (around £1000).
Direct metal laser sintering is where its at! This is where a bed of a chosen metal powder is sintered layer by layer by a programmable laser, thus building the part. The only disadvantage to this method is the cost. There are currently companies that will receive CAD files, print them for a cost and post them to you.
However, I do agree with HNSB! So many companies use CNC due to the expense in more modern processes and it can be a risky move to completely change a manufacturing process within a company. I'm a major fan of CNC milling myself!

Sorry for the essay! But this is what I've been doing for the past couples years haha!

Anyway, I'm starting my CAD design of my scales soon, I'll keep you guys updated with screenshots if you like!