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How to Open a Key Ring

Published in Key Ring 3 mins read

Opening a key ring to add or remove keys can sometimes be tricky, but an easy workaround exists that helps you avoid scratching surfaces or damaging the ring. As shown in the HGTV video titled "The Work Around: How to Easily Open a Key Ring," using a simple household item can make this task much simpler and protect the enamel or other materials from scratches.

Why Opening Key Rings Can Be Difficult

Traditional split key rings are made of sturdy metal coiled tightly. The design relies on tension to keep items securely in place. While effective for security, this tight coil makes it hard to pry open the ring wide enough to slide a key on or off using just your fingernails, which can be painful and ineffective. Using sharp tools might scratch the items you're adding or the keyring itself.

The Easy Workaround: Using a Coin

A widely recommended and simple technique that aligns with the "easy" approach highlighted in the HGTV video involves using a coin. A coin is thin enough to insert into the split but sturdy enough to create leverage without causing damage.

Steps to Open a Key Ring Using a Coin

This method allows you to gently spread the ring just enough to maneuver your items on or off, preventing the need for excessive force or potentially damaging tools.

  1. Gather Your Materials: You'll need the key ring, the key or item you want to add/remove, and a coin (a quarter, dime, or penny usually works well).
  2. Locate the Split: Find the point on the key ring where the two ends of the metal coil overlap.
  3. Insert the Coin: Slide the edge of the coin into the gap between the two layers of metal at the split.
  4. Twist Gently: Twist the coin slightly within the split. This action will gently pry the ring open, creating a small gap large enough to insert your key or item.
  5. Slide Your Item: Once the gap is created by the coin, begin sliding your key or item onto the ring through this opening.
  6. Walk the Item On: As you slide the item around the ring, the coin will hold the split open slightly, allowing the item to travel around the ring's circumference until it is fully on (or off) the other side.
  7. Remove the Coin: Once the item is securely on the ring, you can remove the coin, and the key ring will spring back to its original closed position.

Benefits of This Method

  • Protects Surfaces: Avoids scratching items, especially those with delicate surfaces like enamel keychains, or the keyring itself, as noted in the reference.
  • Saves Your Fingernails: No more pain or damage from trying to force the ring open with your nails.
  • Simple and Accessible: Only requires a common object found in your pocket.
  • Reduces Frustration: Makes the process much quicker and easier.

Using a coin is a practical and effective "workaround" that simplifies the task of managing items on a key ring while protecting both the ring and your belongings.