The Radial Lizard
Overview
Dive into the world of DIY firearms customization with The Radial Lizard, a 3D printable AR15 charging handle designed for enthusiasts who crave innovation. This unique design, inspired by the Radian Raptor, offers an ambidextrous solution that you can craft right at home.
The Radial Lizard serves as a functional and stylish upgrade to your AR15, blending practicality with a personalized touch. Its DIY nature empowers users to create a high-quality charging handle using accessible materials and straightforward instructions. Whether you're a seasoned builder or a curious newcomer, this project delivers both performance and a sense of achievement.
The Radial Lizard Features
Crafted with precision, The Radial Lizard stands out as an ambidextrous charging handle, ensuring ease of use for both left- and right-handed shooters. Its design mirrors the renowned Radian Raptor but brings a DIY twist that makes it accessible to the 3D printing community.
Key highlights include:
- Durability: Built to last with carbon fiber-filled nylon (CF Nylon or PA-CF) for enhanced strength.
- Custom Fit: Utilizes metric screws and a standard pen spring for seamless assembly.
- User-Friendly: Designed by Jimothy Perkins with detailed build instructions available as a PDF guide.
This charging handle combines functionality with a unique aesthetic, making it a must-have for AR15 enthusiasts looking to personalize their firearm. Its practical design ensures smooth operation while adding a custom flair to your setup.
Difficulty & Build Time
- Skill Level: Intermediate
- Estimated Build Time: 4-6 hours
- Required Experience: Basic knowledge of 3D printing and familiarity with assembling small hardware components like screws and springs.
Hardware and Tools Required
Required Hardware
- Over 21g of carbon fiber-filled nylon (PA-CF)
- Standard pen spring (approximately 0.1625"x1")
- Two M3x8 metric screws
Recommended Tools
- 3D printer with a hardened steel nozzle (due to the abrasive nature of CF Nylon)
- Screwdriver or hex key for M3 screws
- Cleaning tools for post-print finishing (e.g., to remove brim or support material)
The Radial Lizard Parts
The Radial Lizard package includes STL files for printing the ambidextrous charging handle, designed to be crafted with carbon fiber-filled nylon for optimal strength and durability. The recommended print settings ensure a high-quality output, with a focus on 100% infill for maximum robustness. Special considerations include using a hardened steel nozzle to handle the abrasive CF Nylon material and avoiding a brim if possible, as it can leave uncomfortable edges on the handles.
For detailed assembly, a comprehensive PDF guide is available at the provided link, walking you through each step of the build process. This ensures even intermediate builders can achieve a professional result with minimal hassle.
Printer Compatibility & Settings
The Radial Lizard is compatible with most FDM 3D printers capable of handling carbon fiber-filled nylon (PA-CF), a material known for its strength and abrasion. Recommended settings include a 0.4mm nozzle size, a layer height of 0.2mm, nozzle temperature of 290°C, and a print bed temperature of 110°C. Speeds should be set to 20mm/s for the initial layer and 40-60mm/s for walls and infill, with retraction enabled and normal supports at 10% infill touching the base plate.
Special requirements include using a hardened steel nozzle to prevent wear from the abrasive CF Nylon. Support structures should have an 80% concentric interface density for stability during printing. These settings, while customizable to your preferred profile, are suggested for optimal results with this design.
Conclusion
The Radial Lizard offers AR15 enthusiasts a unique opportunity to craft a durable, ambidextrous charging handle that rivals commercial designs like the Radian Raptor. With detailed instructions and accessible materials, this DIY project is perfect for those looking to enhance their firearm with a personal touch. Download the files, follow the build guide, and join the vibrant community at thegatalog.com to share your results and explore more innovative designs.
