Abstract: A radio frequency ablation apparatus having an application wand which is articulating and self-locking in a selected configuration. The wand has a handle having a thumb wheel apparatus. A threaded bore extends coaxially through the thumb wheel. A threaded tube received in the threaded bore translates a wire which extends to the distal end of the wand. At the distal end of the wand, the wire passes over a bendable section in the wand. Pushing or pulling the wire bends the distal tip through a range of angles on both sides of a neutral linear position. The distal tip remains self-locked in a selected position when the thumb screw is not turned.