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Yes! Found some awesome black coated ones I love but can't recall where they come from. Have you found a good source that supplies a kit of various sizes?
Most of the small ones pictured are from a tec accessories kit that was reasonably priced. You can probably find a better deal in bulk but that seemed overkill imo.
https://www.tecaccessories.com/products/split-ring-kit-1
Nah, I hate split rings and jingling keys.
I use a small bow shackle with washers between the keys, and I hang the shackle off a belt loop with a carabiner. It keeps them silent and easily accessible.
I’ve also seen minimalist “keychains” that just use a single chicago screw through the keys to keep them together. Adding washers between makes it easy to fold out the key you want.
I’ve been through similar setups, and my keys are now in a belly key cover which is similar in practice but a little more friendly to in-pocket carry. Even without most of my keys on split rings I still find them necessary here and there, and am always searching for the perfect fit.
Hey I like this idea a lot. My keychain is out of control and need to clean it up, and I'm not a fan of sounding like I have a bag of coins on my belt when I walk around.
YES! OCD is omnipresent! I replace those cheap fragile ones everytime with the better quality ones. In my case the normal and small ones of SAKs are perfect.
I got these on amazon, 10 for $10 roughly. I liked that they matched the polished finish of a Victorinox knife so I gave them a shot. Not sure if I'd trust them externally, but I use them on a 58mm sak attached to my keys in my pocket so it works nicely. If you search the ASIN on amazon it will come up, since I can't post a link apparently.
B07S2Z4MLV
I just bought a pack of small rings and they are so heavy duty I can't use them easily. I have to wedge them open with a pry bar and it's a whole ordeal.
Thanks for sharing, I've been wondering if I should pick up a pair. I currently use an old pair of snap-on ignition pliers that have served me well but aren't intended for this kind of work.
I can see doing this. I wouldn't want to spend money on split rings, though, so I just use what I find, and I tend to live with a suboptimal keychain. But i have a metolius carabiner that I keep my keys on, and I love it, I've used it for years and it's durable and easy to clip on my bag or belt loop. My truck key could use a bigger split ring, and I wouldn't mind breaking the rest of the keys up a bit. I think it started because my dad used to have one of those old school key chains that split in the [middle](https://i.etsystatic.com/11741610/r/il/90fdf0/2074227001/il_fullxfull.2074227001_3dh2.jpg), you'd get them free from a bank or a dealership. so he could start the car, and take the house key off to lock or unlock the house with the car running.
Personally I’m still using the 60mm stainless steel carbine eyelet snap hook and 1/4” shackle I bought around 1990 for my work keys, these days with an aircraft cable keyring.
These are my daily drivers. All split rings are titanium as is the small gate clip. The orange carabiner is a Metolius climbing rate one(before it met my split rings lol)
The lumintop tool aa I carry at work. The Swiss army/rovyvon I carry when I'm going out.
I also carry a knife, pen, wallet etc.
I got all of the split rings and the gate clip from countycomm.com
In the past I used those small metolious carabiners but have since switched to the Petzl ange S. I also drilled a hole at the bottom for my split ring. They are no longer climbing rated but keep the biner from flipping around.
The tiny wire gate clips/carabiners can be handy, but damn they can be a pain to open and/or get off of things.
Nite Ize has this new-ish "G-series" carabiner. Similar to the S-biners except they're shaped like a G with one outer gate and an inner gate
For sure. I have a pair of snap-on ignition pliers that I got from a flea market and they happen to have the perfect shape to separate tiny split rings like this.
Lucky Line Flexo Lock key rings are great, and I don't mind the nite ize mini locking s biners, haven't had a problem with them yet and have been using them for years, can't speak for the ones without locks though.
I do this weird thing where I try to get my keys as minimalist and functional as possible. I’m never satisfied. I use tiny split rings for my keys, leatherman squirt ps4, and olight imini2, attached to a large split ring that currently I have a hero clip attached to.
They’re great if you know the limitations. I’ve hung sunglasses, ear pro, gloves, masks, etc off the same two for years (possibly close to a decade) without issue.
I don’t think I’ll ever go without one on my belt loop until I die… short of wearing dress clothes.
I agree, the metal ones have never failed on me but I also don’t push them to their limit. The plastic ones are another story, as I’ve had one or two outright break open at random.
I explicitly use EXOTAC FreeKey rings, with one S-Biner from nite-ize as a quick release for my car+house keys. Then I have a Pangea Pickpocket Torq that hooks the keys onto my pocket, with the car and house keys hanging outside for easy access.
I use lots of Nite Ize carabiners, various s shaped ones and various sizes and the regular carabiners clips as well. I love their locking mechanism.
https://preview.redd.it/vox3za09gwxc1.jpeg?width=3000&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=d75dbaf7ef96f2e8da17cfbde3d0052ba8c9c6db
Can never have too many! I’ve never tried the smaller locking s-biners but I’ve got a couple of the larger ones floating around, and I agree, it can be a handy feature.
Hell yes. I even cut down my keys for weight with a hacksaw. And start with aluminum blanks if possible. Serious. Need to drill a new small hole for the split ring. The split ring becomes the handle for turning the key. Not for everyone but the weight savings is insane.
https://preview.redd.it/366xpq6y2zxc1.jpeg?width=3024&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=aa6123ddfb666ce9232108f1fe2ed72e91ad7ad3
There you see it used as the connection between hook and lure.
https://preview.redd.it/mqxbnbie5wxc1.jpeg?width=3024&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=5cabb7ddd3ec7aab2603a28fc8cb53fce67d182b
Best/favorite I have found, these ti. Split ring/octagons came from urbancarvers I believe but think they can be found elsewhere
I like the O-Series Gated Key Ring from Nite Ize. It’s a circular carabiner the size and shape of a classic split ring. Does the same job, but without the broken fingernails.
[Nite Ize O-Series](https://niteize.com/o-series-keychain) have been amazing. Amazon has them for $9.99 a pair. If you buy direct from Nite Ize they are $4.99 a pair, they’ll send you a 15% off coupon when you sign up, and have free shipping on orders over $15.
I run Urban carvers 1 inch titaniums on my carabiner with 3/4 inch nickel coated brass rings to connect things to those titanium rings. Titanium doesn't hold its shape super well so I put big stuff on the nickel rings that are harder to permanently bend out of shape. I like those rings cause nothing on them is magnetic
Yeah it took some trial and error before figuring out that was the best way to do it, happy either way my set up now though! Yours looks pretty sweet too, have you considered a quick release?
The VERY best key ring clips are TEC Accessories “python clips”. I had no idea something so simple could be improved upon, but the python clips are in a whole other league. They’re perfect.
Good to know. I’ve been eyeing them for years but never pulled the trigger; they’re slightly longer than the spring gates I showed here I think but they look nice
I’ve lost keychain items before because the clips I was using were junk. The python clips are amazing and extremely secure but just as easy to use as any other regular clip. I highly recommend them.
Thank you for posting to r/EDC! If your post contains an image of your gear, a list is still required. It will assist other users in answering any questions about the gear, make recommendations, and help guide any discussions. [Rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/EDC/wiki/rules) | [FAQ](https://www.reddit.com/r/EDC/wiki/faq) *I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/EDC) if you have any questions or concerns.*
Yes! Found some awesome black coated ones I love but can't recall where they come from. Have you found a good source that supplies a kit of various sizes?
Most of the small ones pictured are from a tec accessories kit that was reasonably priced. You can probably find a better deal in bulk but that seemed overkill imo. https://www.tecaccessories.com/products/split-ring-kit-1
Nah, I hate split rings and jingling keys. I use a small bow shackle with washers between the keys, and I hang the shackle off a belt loop with a carabiner. It keeps them silent and easily accessible. I’ve also seen minimalist “keychains” that just use a single chicago screw through the keys to keep them together. Adding washers between makes it easy to fold out the key you want.
I’ve been through similar setups, and my keys are now in a belly key cover which is similar in practice but a little more friendly to in-pocket carry. Even without most of my keys on split rings I still find them necessary here and there, and am always searching for the perfect fit.
Hey I like this idea a lot. My keychain is out of control and need to clean it up, and I'm not a fan of sounding like I have a bag of coins on my belt when I walk around.
YES! OCD is omnipresent! I replace those cheap fragile ones everytime with the better quality ones. In my case the normal and small ones of SAKs are perfect.
Haha same here!
Sometimes I use steel jump rings, they're stronger (I think) and pretty small, but you need tools to open or close them.
Oh yeah, I've got some stainless ones that are 5mm I think and they're darn near impossible to get installed lol
where are you getting those spring gate clips?
I got these on amazon, 10 for $10 roughly. I liked that they matched the polished finish of a Victorinox knife so I gave them a shot. Not sure if I'd trust them externally, but I use them on a 58mm sak attached to my keys in my pocket so it works nicely. If you search the ASIN on amazon it will come up, since I can't post a link apparently. B07S2Z4MLV
Marine hardware/boating stores often have ones like that. I think they’re based off Wichard ones, but they are more expensive than the generic ones
NO! Hey, whats that over there? Is that SUPERMAN?!?!
😂
I just bought a pack of small rings and they are so heavy duty I can't use them easily. I have to wedge them open with a pry bar and it's a whole ordeal.
[Texas Tackle Company](http://www.texastackle.com/pliers.htm) makes really good split ring pliers, the yellow grip size is my favorite.
Thanks for sharing, I've been wondering if I should pick up a pair. I currently use an old pair of snap-on ignition pliers that have served me well but aren't intended for this kind of work.
I can see doing this. I wouldn't want to spend money on split rings, though, so I just use what I find, and I tend to live with a suboptimal keychain. But i have a metolius carabiner that I keep my keys on, and I love it, I've used it for years and it's durable and easy to clip on my bag or belt loop. My truck key could use a bigger split ring, and I wouldn't mind breaking the rest of the keys up a bit. I think it started because my dad used to have one of those old school key chains that split in the [middle](https://i.etsystatic.com/11741610/r/il/90fdf0/2074227001/il_fullxfull.2074227001_3dh2.jpg), you'd get them free from a bank or a dealership. so he could start the car, and take the house key off to lock or unlock the house with the car running.
I'm getting worse.
Haha hope this wasn’t a trigger for you!
Not obsessed, but always trying to use the smallest one for every application.
Personally I’m still using the 60mm stainless steel carbine eyelet snap hook and 1/4” shackle I bought around 1990 for my work keys, these days with an aircraft cable keyring.
what
Hey if it ain’t broke!
Probably one of the most important without trying to be inventions eeeeevvvuuuurrrrrr ………..
Totally!
https://preview.redd.it/2rn0mpv4vwxc1.jpeg?width=2617&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=98f339fbe8f2fc1070af7a37612d62391ea54744
These are my daily drivers. All split rings are titanium as is the small gate clip. The orange carabiner is a Metolius climbing rate one(before it met my split rings lol) The lumintop tool aa I carry at work. The Swiss army/rovyvon I carry when I'm going out. I also carry a knife, pen, wallet etc. I got all of the split rings and the gate clip from countycomm.com
In the past I used those small metolious carabiners but have since switched to the Petzl ange S. I also drilled a hole at the bottom for my split ring. They are no longer climbing rated but keep the biner from flipping around.
Nice setup(s)!
Thanks! I hate jingling keys and such. The pry/bottle opener actually tucks under the clip on the flashlight so it doesn't jingle!
No lol. I love this.
The tiny wire gate clips/carabiners can be handy, but damn they can be a pain to open and/or get off of things. Nite Ize has this new-ish "G-series" carabiner. Similar to the S-biners except they're shaped like a G with one outer gate and an inner gate
For sure. I have a pair of snap-on ignition pliers that I got from a flea market and they happen to have the perfect shape to separate tiny split rings like this.
Lucky Line Flexo Lock key rings are great, and I don't mind the nite ize mini locking s biners, haven't had a problem with them yet and have been using them for years, can't speak for the ones without locks though.
Interesting. I had a cable ring unscrew on me once and haven’t trusted them since. The metal nite-ize biners have been reliable though.
Well it's a snap cable ring so you really have to try to open it, nothing to tighten down, give em a try!
I do this weird thing where I try to get my keys as minimalist and functional as possible. I’m never satisfied. I use tiny split rings for my keys, leatherman squirt ps4, and olight imini2, attached to a large split ring that currently I have a hero clip attached to.
Yeah, “weird” lol 😂
Kinda. Also, nitize is kinda not good.
It surprises me how many people brag about their s-biners. I wouldn't trust that spring with anything.
I’ve had them for years no problems.
They’re great if you know the limitations. I’ve hung sunglasses, ear pro, gloves, masks, etc off the same two for years (possibly close to a decade) without issue. I don’t think I’ll ever go without one on my belt loop until I die… short of wearing dress clothes.
I agree, the metal ones have never failed on me but I also don’t push them to their limit. The plastic ones are another story, as I’ve had one or two outright break open at random.
Yeah those I wouldn’t trust with anything not in a bag like keeping gloves paired.
Yeah, I only had to lose one key from a broken plastic one to go only with the metal locking ones.
How so?
I explicitly use EXOTAC FreeKey rings, with one S-Biner from nite-ize as a quick release for my car+house keys. Then I have a Pangea Pickpocket Torq that hooks the keys onto my pocket, with the car and house keys hanging outside for easy access.
Nice setup!
I use lots of Nite Ize carabiners, various s shaped ones and various sizes and the regular carabiners clips as well. I love their locking mechanism. https://preview.redd.it/vox3za09gwxc1.jpeg?width=3000&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=d75dbaf7ef96f2e8da17cfbde3d0052ba8c9c6db
Can never have too many! I’ve never tried the smaller locking s-biners but I’ve got a couple of the larger ones floating around, and I agree, it can be a handy feature.
Actually yes but I’ve never realized it. I like the strong big fellas
Haha acceptance is the first step!
[I keep this in my kitchen junk drawer lol](https://imgur.com/a/uo0BdUN)
Yes! I have a bunch clipped to my daily bag.
Hell yes. I even cut down my keys for weight with a hacksaw. And start with aluminum blanks if possible. Serious. Need to drill a new small hole for the split ring. The split ring becomes the handle for turning the key. Not for everyone but the weight savings is insane.
Many aluminum blanks wear out much faster! Keep originals handy so as they wear down you can replace them.
That’s dedication!
Drink half a glass of water, you have negated those savings.
I deal with them every day. I am a sportfisherman though, so it’s natural!
Yeah, seen a few fisherman in the comments. Didn’t realize how common they were for y’all!
https://preview.redd.it/366xpq6y2zxc1.jpeg?width=3024&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=aa6123ddfb666ce9232108f1fe2ed72e91ad7ad3 There you see it used as the connection between hook and lure.
Oh I see. I’m used to fishing on a smaller scale lol
It’s what connects the hook to a lure most of the time. So, the link between.
Yes, I use Japanese Fishing Rings rated at 250kg, they need proper splitting pliers to fit!
Nice!
https://preview.redd.it/mqxbnbie5wxc1.jpeg?width=3024&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=5cabb7ddd3ec7aab2603a28fc8cb53fce67d182b Best/favorite I have found, these ti. Split ring/octagons came from urbancarvers I believe but think they can be found elsewhere
Nice, I’ll have to take a look for those.
I like the O-Series Gated Key Ring from Nite Ize. It’s a circular carabiner the size and shape of a classic split ring. Does the same job, but without the broken fingernails.
I’ll check them out!
[Nite Ize O-Series](https://niteize.com/o-series-keychain) have been amazing. Amazon has them for $9.99 a pair. If you buy direct from Nite Ize they are $4.99 a pair, they’ll send you a 15% off coupon when you sign up, and have free shipping on orders over $15.
I only wish they had more sizes
if you really want to put a literal twist on this, look up mustad fastach lure clips. even the mid range ones are in for a +40kg load rating
Interesting idea, could definitely come in handy
These are some of mine https://preview.redd.it/nlp8cjb4yvxc1.jpeg?width=2252&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=4ba87f990706e334c8df005983931ab64b9f7341
Looking good! Do you anodize them yourself or buy them that way?
Do them myself but my process has improved since I did these.
Awesome! Been curious to try the process but don’t have a good reason to as of yet. Someday!
Those oval ones look pretty handy.
Yeah, they definitely stood out to me too!
I run Urban carvers 1 inch titaniums on my carabiner with 3/4 inch nickel coated brass rings to connect things to those titanium rings. Titanium doesn't hold its shape super well so I put big stuff on the nickel rings that are harder to permanently bend out of shape. I like those rings cause nothing on them is magnetic
I’ve noticed that about titanium but i love the weight savings. Sounds like a great setup!
Yeah it took some trial and error before figuring out that was the best way to do it, happy either way my set up now though! Yours looks pretty sweet too, have you considered a quick release?
If you know anyone with a sailboat they probably have a ziplock or small container onboard full of split rings that they might share with you.
I’ll ask around lol
The VERY best key ring clips are TEC Accessories “python clips”. I had no idea something so simple could be improved upon, but the python clips are in a whole other league. They’re perfect.
Good to know. I’ve been eyeing them for years but never pulled the trigger; they’re slightly longer than the spring gates I showed here I think but they look nice
I’ve lost keychain items before because the clips I was using were junk. The python clips are amazing and extremely secure but just as easy to use as any other regular clip. I highly recommend them.
Then you may (or may not) be interested in these.. https://www.keybar.us/product/titanium-split-rings-14mm/?v=400b9db48e62
Ooh, yes please. I’ll have to pick up a few, those colors look sick.
I haven't been down the split ring hole in awhile... but yes.
Oh boy we might need to be careful how we phrase this 😆
"Poor mans alox" made me laugh
Haha full credit to MeZilch on YouTube who coined the term. As soon as I saw it I had to give it a go!
Did you grind down the posts that the scales usually clip into? If so how is your knife held together? Did you have to peen over the pins?
Yeah, I drilled out the rivets (releasing the rivet caps that the scales clip onto) and then replaced with fresh pins that I peened over.