Precision ingenieur'ed paracord lock that does not require additional parts and prints easy and reliably.
Will fit 4mm diameter paracords and is very compact in size. Obviously not suitable for safety relevant applications.
Assembly tested with PETG and 0.25mm nozzle; does not require support geometry.
| Paracordlock | ||
|---|---|---|
| 2022-03-15 | v1.0 | Complete redesign to allow for higher tolerances when combining different materials: assembly is now more precise, and doesn't need as much force. Added choice of two accessory thimbles. new latch mechanism, smaller dimensions; not compatible with tools <v0.5 |
| 2022-03-10 | v0.6 | more elastic latches for the top half, tolerance increased for sleeve |
| 2022-03-09 | v0.5 | consistent file naming, minor improvements |
| 2022-03-08 | v0.4 | initial public release |
| Tool | ||
|---|---|---|
| 2022-03-15 | v0.5 | adaption to v1.0 shape, larger press surface, slotted to allow both assembly directions |
| 2022-03-10 | v0.4 | better fit to sleeve, less friction in centering geometry |
| 2022-03-08 | v0.3 | centering feature added, geom. depth limit added, minor improvements |
| 2022-03-08 | v0.2 | initial public release |
| Thimbles | ||
|---|---|---|
| 2022-03-15 | v0.2 | initial public release |

0.) Everything you need plus optional thimble.

1.) Orient the wedge and paracord according to the assembly direction: the sleeve and tool will be applied from the thin side of the wedge. Place cord into the bottom half.
notes
don't forget to place the sleeve on the cord, if your loop will be closed. When creating a loop without thimble, you may also wedge from the opposite direction

2.) Assemble the top half, and press lightly, so that the assembly latch is pre-engaged. make sure that the outer wrap of the cord is not squashed between the closing edges.
notes
The cord can still be moved in the pre-engaged position.
When you placed a thimble, now is the time to tighten the cord, so it will be trapped.

3.) Position the sleeve onto the wedge.

4.) Position the tool on the bottom of the sleeve, and use both hands to push the sleeve on the wedge until the latches are fully engaged.
notes
The final push needs a bit more force to engage the latches.
Don't worry to apply too much force: the tool concentrates it to where it is needed, and will also prevent overshooting.

5.) Visual check: the sleeve is placed right, when it is roughly centered on the wedge.

Illustration shows functional surfaces highlighted in orange
The tool is used to center the assembly force to the sleeve. It features a slot, so it can be removed from closed loops when -for example- thimbles have been installed.

Choice of two types: round and drop-shaped; available in the Files section.
available here
Please comment if something can be improved, or if it works for you. Also don't forget to share makes and application examples!
The author marked this model as their own original creation.