Pistol Pliers v1.0

Pistol Pliers

Print-in-place spring return to open pliers with a pistol grip.  I'm calling this an original design, but it was surely inspired by the classic Predator model.  The Predator lacked the spring return and trigger mechanisms, however.  Like the Predator, the Pistol Pliers are not very useful as power transfer from the trigger to the jaws is lost in the drive train and geometry.  Makes for a fun fidget though.

• Print-in-place spring
• Print-in-place gears
• No additional hardware required
• Multi-color, if desired

Printing

The print profile includes three filaments for a multi-color look.  There are just 15 color changes if you go that route.  The profile also specifies triangular infill at 20% for strength.  This is a very tight tolerance model, not all printers and makers will obtain successful prints.

Bed adhesion is important on this model.  The 23 separate spring coils are individual parts for the first 20 layers or so.  They are small and can easily get knocked off the bed.  Use your best adhesion practices!

Post Printing

Surprisingly, I've had no issues freeing up the print-in-place intricate parts on this model.  I've posted a video showing my process which includes:

• Press firmly on the spring coils (and slide)
• Press firmly and rock the six gears back and forth
• Try the trigger with a bit of force.  If it doesn't move, repeat the above steps.  

You should hear crackling and feel movement when freeing up the parts.

Revision History

• 6/20/2025 - Version 1.0 released
• 6/20/2025 - Version 1.0c released (adds an optional cover)