Squeeze clip for filament spool spindle / axle

thingiverse

For my Anet A8, I sought a quicker release alternative to the standard M8 nuts. To that end, I devised this squeeze clip. To employ it, simply compress the arms slightly to release the grip on the rod and slide off. They won't provide as secure a hold as a nut paired with a lock nut, but they suffice for retaining the spindle in place. I crafted two sizes - one for the stock M8 threaded rod with an inside diameter of 7mm, and a smaller one for a 6.4mm guide rod salvaged from a scanner, repurposed for a different spool stand.