Pocket Grips

Fully 3D Printable Pocket Grips After seeing the fantastic all-metal Pocket Grips available from MetMo, I wondered whether it would be possible to create a similar version that could be produced entirely on a standard FDM 3D printer—with no screws, pins or additional hardware.   This model is the result of that challenge.   Although inspired by the original concept, this isn't simply a copy. Considerable CAD modelling, prototyping and testing went into re-engineering the mechanism so it could be manufactured as a practical, fully 3D printable assembly. Inevitably, some features of the original metal design had to be simplified or omitted in order to achieve that goal. For example, this version does not feature interchangeable jaw inserts or integrated wire-cutting edges, allowing the mechanism to remain printable while still capturing the satisfying functionality of an adjustable pocket-sized grip. One feature I'm particularly pleased with is the pivot for the adjustment screw. Rather than requiring a metal pin or fastener, it simply uses a short piece of standard 1.75 mm filament, making this a genuinely hardware-free print that can be assembled straight off the printer. Assembly Please refer to the included exploded-view assembly video before putting the model together. Important: the adjustment screw and thumbwheel must be installed before the two handle halves are joined together. Once the handles are assembled, these components cannot be fitted without disassembly. Printing PLA is fine, I recommend printing with a generous number of walls/perimeters and for the best strength, a more durable filament such as PETG, ABS, ASA. Even then, remember that this is a plastic tool and should be treated accordingly. A Note on Expectations While these printed grips are surprisingly functional and great fun to build and use, they are not intended to compete with the strength, precision or durability of the original machined metal product. If you're looking for a professional-grade tool that will withstand years of heavy use, the original Pocket Grips are exceptionally well made and well worth a look.   This project was created as a personal engineering challenge and as something enjoyable for the 3D printing community to build—not as a replacement for the original product. If you'd like to see (or purchase) the beautifully machined metal version that inspired this project, you can find it here:   If you print a set, I'd love to see your makes and any improvements or remixes you come up with. Happy printing!