This is another one of those little hacks that takes longer to describe than to build. Some time ago, I stumbled on a clever idea online that has been useful in my ham radio activities.
I used to use ball bungee fasteners in a variety of sizes as temporary fasteners. While they are handy, they have limitations for my uses. On occasion, I found that the sizes I had available were either too small or too large for the task at hand.
A year or two back, I found a great video on the MOD YouTube Channel. The video described how to make these simple, adjustable cable ties. I made up a few and found them handy for several ham-related applications.
These little devices have a multitude of uses but my main use is for antennas in the field. I use them to fasten a BALUN or UNUN to a telescopic pole for portable verticals.
I also found they are also handy for lashing odd items to the MOLLE loops on my backpack. In a recent post, I showed how I use them to secure a 19-foot telescopic pole to my sling pack.
Of course, they make great cable ties. Their ability to adjust allows them to fit a wide variety of cables.
You only need 2 things to make these: some shock cord and some double hole cord locks. (If you watched the MOD video, you already know all this.)
I use 4mm diameter shock cord most often to make these. For some smaller, light-duty applications, I have used a thinner 2.5mm shock cord. I have found that the cord locks seem to hold better with the larger 4mm shock cord.
Construction is super simple.
- Cut the shock cord to the desired length. Be sure to singe the cut ends with a lighter to prevent fraying.
- Put the two ends through the holes in the cord lock.
- Holding the two ends together, tie a simple overhand knot and snug it down.
- To use them, place the bungee around whatever you need to fasten. Place the loop end over the cord lock to hold it. Press the button on the cord lock and pull the ends to cinch it down.
That’s all there is to it. In the time it took to write and edit this post, I could have made a ton of these things. It’s not an Earth-shattering thing but sometimes it doesn’t take much to amuse me.
Thanks to MOD YouTube Channel for sharing this great idea.
72, Craig WB3GCK
[Disclaimer: I have no financial interest whatsoever in Amazon or any of these products.]
Links:
WB3GCK QRP Amateur Radio 