Rapala Countdown 11cm 16gram replica

Description

This is my replica of the legendary Rapala Countdown 11 cm 16 gram, designed and modeled directly from a precise 3D scan of an original Rapala 11cm 16gram lure. The Countdown is famous for its ability to consistently find fish at any depth, and this 3D-printed version brings that exact versatility to your tackle box. With its 11 cm profile and iconic swimming action, it is the perfect weapon when targeting big perch, large trout, pike, and zander.

A massive amount of thought, engineering, and testing went into the physics of this design. It achieves the exact same characteristic swimming action that makes the original so famous. Whether you are trolling or casting, it cuts through the water with an incredible, lifelike motion that predators simply cannot resist.

Design Notes

• 3D Scanned Precision: Modeled directly from a physical 3D scan of a real Rapala Countdown 11 cm to ensure perfect proportions and hydrodynamics.
• True-to-Original Physics: The assembled weight, center of mass, and volume have been perfectly matched to identical specs of the original 16-gram metal/balsa lure. Because the physical properties and balance are identical, this printed version achieves the exact same legendary swimming action.
• True-to-Original Action: Carefully engineered to replicate the legendary, subtle triggering action of the original model.
• Reinforced Lip Design: The diving lip is printed as a separate piece to ensure the absolute strongest layer orientation (printed flat). This ensures it won't snap off when repeatedly hitting underwater obstacles like large sticks, plants, or rocks. For the absolute best results and to minimize stair-stepping, I highly recommend printing the lip at a 0.08 mm layer height so it stays completely smooth under the clear coat.
• Advanced Print Stability Block: To ensure the best success rate on fast printers, I have engineered a brand new custom support block system. It connects to the body at multiple heights, completely eliminating wobble. You can confidently fill your build plate with multiple lures without worrying about a single print failure. To save material, an infill modifier has been integrated so it uses as little plastic as possible.

Strength & Testing

• 6.8 kg+ Load Capacity: This lure uses the exact same internal connection system as my other models, which has been thoroughly tested to lift at least 6.8 kg with absolutely no issues. The internal structure is rock-solid and built to handle heavy, hard-fighting predators.

Assembly

The lure consists of two printed parts: the main body and the separate diving lip.

1. Remove Support Block: Once printed, simply "rock" the stability block back and forth to snap it off. Use your flush cutters/snippers to remove any small remaining connection bumps, and give it a quick sand with fine sandpaper. It takes almost no time!
2. Glue the Lip: Secure the diving lip into the body slot using a strong 5-minute epoxy or superglue.
3. Install Hardware: Install the 3 screw eyes into the prepared holes. For an easier and significantly stronger fit, I recommend gently heating the screw eyes with a lighter before pressing and screwing them into the plastic.
4. Hooks: Attach the 2x 7mm split rings to the designated screw eyes and mount your size #4 treble hooks.

Hardware Requirements

To fully assemble the lure, you will need the following hardware:

• 3x Screw Eyes: Stainless steel. 1.3 mm thread thickness, 12 mm full length, 5 mm outer eye diameter, 8 mm shaft length. (These can be bought very cheaply on sites like Temu or similar).
• 2x Split Rings: 7 mm.
• 2x Treble Hooks: Size #4.

Finishing

To achieve a glass-like, durable, and professional finish, I highly recommend coating the body.

• UV Resin: For my own lures, I dip them in clear UV resin twice and cure them.
• Strength & Waterproofing: Applying the UV resin is highly recommended as it adds significant extra strength to the shell and guarantees that the model is 100% completely waterproof, protecting your print for the long run. It also provides incredible durability against sharp pike and zander teeth.
• Crucial Step: Remember to clear away any excess resin from the screw eyes before hitting it with the UV light, so the eyes stay clean and open for your split rings.

Important

For the best balance, the correct swimming action, and optimal performance, it is highly recommended to use my included print profile. The internal layout and weight distribution are specifically calculated for these settings. Changing them can affect the lure's unique performance in the water.

Tight lines!!