Disc Golf Snap Retriever — Direct-Mount (M5 screw)

Why this model exists

There are a few  similar retrievers already on Printables, but this one is special in two respects:

1. It has an embedded metallic M5 screw, so that it screws on directly on the telescopic extension rod.

2. All movable parts have fully-movable joints, based on raw 1.75-mm filament core.

Otherwise, it offers the usual action: if your disc is stuck in a tree or underwater, prod it with the retriever’s tongue, and the rubber band-powered jaws snap around the rim of the disc, allowing you to pull it towards you.

The model requires additional hardware:

• One M5 screw with standard hexagonal head. The screw must be at least 30 mm long (M5×30). I use M5×40.

• Ideally also an M5 nut to counter-tighten the screw.

• One rubber band.

• Four short lengths of raw (plain) 1.75-mm filament for joint pivots.

Printing

The model is best printed in PETG. Standard 0.4-mm nozzle and 0.2-mm layers are OK. The attached 3mf  file demonstrates what I did for supports, but you may find a better solution. The advantage of mine is the orientation of printed layers, which provide maximum strength in the most loaded direction.

Be sure to clean the print of support residue and strings before assembly.

Pause mid-print to insert screw

The print will pause when the cavity for the screw is fully printed -- that occurs at around 81 % of the overall progress. Insert the screw sideways, with the hex head flats facing upwards and downwards! Resume printing when done.

Assembly

1. Put the jaws together and secure the center of the joint with a length of filament. You may use pliers to push it in. Note that the central barrel has a slightly larger inner diameter, so it moves freely around the filament. Cut flush with the body.

2. Construct the tongue in the same way. Each half of the tongue has a hump on one side: that goes towards the back (joint) of the retriever. The flat side faces front (teeth).

   

3. Optionally, insert the plug into the square part of the screw cavity. The easiest way to do this is to slide it in a little, hold it flush with the screw, and slowly screw an M5 nut onto the screw shaft so that it gradually presses the plug in.

4. Wrap a rubber band around the jaws. The number of loops is up to you, depending on the band you choose, and the bite strength you desire.

Use

1. Screw the retriever on a telescopic pole. If you have a counter-nut in the screw shaft, tighten it.

2. Extend pole to necessary length.

3. Spread the jaws apart by hand, and secure by straightening the tongue.

4. Reach for your disc and slightly prod the rim with the retriever's tongue. The jaws will snap closed around it.

5. Pull steadily towards you. If the disc is high above ground, and becomes fully free, it may pivot and drop out of the jaws. Putters and mid-ranges are more susceptible to this than drivers. This is typically not a problem because even if it happens, the disc falls to the ground, which is what you wanted in the first place.

Stowage Tip

While not in use, or while this retriever becomes your default and other adapters for your telescopic pole go in the bag, consider using my Disc Golf Bag Protector.