The Knob Blocker – Radio Knob Guard
The Knob Blocker is a 3D-printed radio knob guard designed to help prevent accidental volume and channel changes on portable two-way radios.
Built for search and rescue, fire, EMS, police, ski patrol, utilities, forestry, security, industrial crews, and other field users, The Knob Blocker helps protect exposed radio controls while keeping your radio accessible and usable.
Key Features
- Helps prevent accidental volume changes
- Helps prevent accidental channel changes
- Helps reduce accidental radio power-on and battery drain
- Helps protect exposed knobs from bumps, impacts, and pressure from gear
- Designed for radios carried on harnesses, packs, belts, turnout gear, vests, and shoulder straps
- Lightweight, durable, and low-profile
- Easy friction-fit installation
- Designed, tested, and 3D printed by Skookum Works in Squamish, BC
Why We Made It
The Knob Blocker was created after a real field incident.
Our founder, a member of Squamish Search and Rescue, was hanging below a helicopter long line when his radio volume knob was accidentally bumped down to the lowest setting. He could no longer hear radio traffic and did not immediately realize what had happened.
That experience led to the design of The Knob Blocker: a simple, rugged accessory that helps reduce the risk of accidental radio knob movement in demanding environments.
Designed for Demanding Environments
Portable radios are often carried in places where they can easily be bumped by equipment, clothing, seatbelts, branches, ropes, packs, or other gear.
The Knob Blocker is designed for users who rely on dependable communication in real-world conditions, including:
- Search and rescue teams
- Fire departments
- Police and law enforcement
- Paramedics and EMS
- Ski patrol
- Security teams
- Utility workers
- Forestry crews
- Transportation workers
- Manufacturing and industrial teams
- Hospitality and event staff
Compatible Radio Models
Please use the model dropdown to select the version that matches your radio.
Don’t see your radio model listed? If you are willing to work with us to design a version for your team’s radios, contact us and we may be able to create one together.
Compatibility Notes
The Knob Blocker is only compatible with OEM antennas unless otherwise stated.
APX series Knob Blockers are not compatible with APX XE models.
Materials
Most Knob Blocker models are 3D printed from PETG, a durable thermoplastic commonly used for strong, impact-resistant parts. PETG offers good toughness, water resistance, and layer adhesion, making it well suited for field-use accessories.
As of April 17, 2025, APX 5000 / 6000 / 7000 / 8000 series Knob Blockers are printed from TPU. TPU is a flexible and resilient material with excellent wear resistance, tear strength, and durability. TPU is more expensive than PETG, which is reflected in the price of those models.
Custom Text
Custom text is available on orders of 10 or more units.
Please contact us at info@skookumworks.ca for custom orders.
Personalization costs an additional $9.50 CAD per unit, with a minimum order of 10 units.
Skookum Works Guarantee
We design, test, and 3D print all of our products ourselves.
We created The Knob Blocker to solve a problem we experienced firsthand, and we stand behind everything we make. If you are not satisfied with your product when you receive it, or if it does not perform the way it should, please contact us so we can make it right.
Installation Video
See the installation video below for setup instructions.