Baofeng Locknut Tool V2

The new and improved version

This tool is designed to turn the locknuts on Baofeng radios. They could've used hexagonal nuts on the radios, but instead they went with something that can't easily be turned by a tool found in the average toolbox. Some Baofeng radios come with volume knobs with nubs on the underside that can be used to turn the antenna locknut, but not all of them do and those nubs won't turn the potentiometer locknut. Also, mods like the fantastic Volume Knob and Protector model by Punkelopment attach to the radio using the locknut (see last two photos).

This model improves upon my original model in 3 ways. First and most importantly, by strengthening the teeth so they don't snap off so easily. By making the teeth "internal" to the tool, the teeth are not at risk of snapping off like the old version because there is material connecting the teeth together. Second improvement is lengthening the narrow end so it can fit inside volume knob protectors. Third, bevels are added on more surfaces so it can print without supports.

Thank you for checking out my model. If find this tool helpful, or have feedback to share, I would greatly appreciate it if you left a make or a comment.

Slicing and Printing:

These are the settings I found helpful to set to get the best print. Most settings were left on default. PLA as filament is fine.

• Orientation: as-is (narrow side up).

• Wall Printing Order: Outer-Inner only. Other orders tend to cause issues.

• Brim: Recommended. Only use external brim.

• Supports: No. Supports are not needed.

The external diameter of the SMA end is somewhat of a critical dimension and will interfere with the radio body if too wide. As a result, the tool will likely need a quick cleanup around the outer rim of the wide end if printed with a brim or if there was elephant's foot on the first layer. I find a craft knife does the best job at removing any excess plastic getting in the way.