We get very excited about 3D printed EDC gear that’s designed to work with 711L EDC tools, and in this article we’re going to focus on the work of 3D builder ZapWizard, who designed the holster for Leatherman and 711L EDC ratchet wrench that went into orbit on the ISS. ZapWizard have also made a great bit holder handle for the 711L EDC ratchet driver, which we’re going to look at in more detail here.
Meet the ZapWizard 12 bit handle for the 711L EDC ratchet driver
We’ve got our hands on the new ZapWizard 12 bit handle for the 711L EDC ratchet driver, pictured above, and we think it’s a great example of 3D printed EDC gear that complements 711L EDC tools. ZapWizard have really thought through the features of what an EDC gear user wants, and the result is a lightweight, robust, 12 bit handle with magnetic retention for bits and ratchet.
We found the interference fit with the 711L EDC ratchet driver to be very secure, and liked the snap-on cover that builds out the ratchet barrel to match the form factor of the bit holder. The ZapWizard handle comfortably takes 1” single and double ended bits, matching the capabilities of the sliding magnet bit holder in the 711L EDC ratchet. The cap reverses and magnetically latches onto the base to make a full-size grip.
Why is 3D printed EDC gear trending right now?
A reason why 3D printed EDC gear is increasingly popular is that the technology is now widely adopted, and trusted, so people are aware of the potential for 3D printing. ZapWizard offers a good example of how thoughtful, well engineered design and excellent customer service can complement high quality EDC tools and enhance their functionality and add convenience.
In orbit & back down to Earth with 3D printed EDC gear
We’ve talked about NASA astronaut and flight engineer Jonny Kim using a ZapWizard 3D printed holster (Leatherman ARC version pictured above) on ISS mission Expedition 73 to give him a secure place to keep his Leatherman tool and 711L EDC ratchet wrench in Zero-G. This is an example of the professionally designed and printed ZapWizard 3D accessories for 711L EDC gear that have really impressed us.
3D printed EDC gear for astronauts using 711L tools
NASA procurement manifests include several examples of EDC gear, which makes sense as you want utility with minimal weight when you’re going into space. Astronaut Jonny Kim, pictured above, flight engineer on ISS mission Expedition 73 asked custom 3D printed EDC gear maker ZapWizard to print a custom holster that would fit his Leatherman tool, ratchet driver, and 711L EDC flex head ratchet wrench, making this the first 711L tool in orbit, another giant leap for 711L EDC gear!
ZapWizard customized Leatherman holster for 711L EDC Gear
This ZapWizard video gives you an excellent example of how a professional 3D printer can offer customized services to give you a truly personalized result. Jonny Kim wanted to fit his 711L EDC Gear flex head ratchet wrench for Leatherman in the ZapWizard Leatherman holster that was originally designed for the fixed head 711L ratchet.
The professionalism and attention to detail of ZapWizard in ensuring every detail was correct is a great example of how expert 3D printing by customer focused designers makes a perfect compliment to high quality EDC gear engineering.
Zapwizard also make a holster for the Leatherman Surge with 711L EDC tool compatibility and a bit holder holster for Leatherman flat bits that has mounting points compatible with 711L ratchets, as shown in the picture above. We appreciate how their work respects the utility and compatibility of different EDC brands and products to improve the user experience of EDC gear.
What’s the verdict on 3D printed EDC gear for 711L EDC tools?
We really like to see 3D printed EDC gear for 711L EDC tools, and are very happy that individual makers, EDC enthusiasts and professional 3D designer-builders are such a strong and supportive element of the EDC community.
We love designing tools and trying to work out the best features and combinations of EDC gear that we can make, and it’s great to get feedback and insights into how people use and enjoy 711L EDC tools from seeing the 3D printed accessories they make. Keep them coming and tell us about your 3D printed designs and ideas for 3D printed accessories for 711L EDC gear!
