While commonly called "e-rings" that refers to one specific type of metric retaining ring and there are dozens of types in many materials, and both internal and external. Circlips (which is what most people call retaining rings, though snap rings is often heard that is not a proper term to use) come in two main types – internal and external. External circlips are designed to fit around a bore and often have protrusions. Internal circlips are made to fit inside a cylindrical shaft or housing and are therefore round all the way around (assuming it was closed off).

Metric retaining rings (also known as Circlips) clamp onto difficult-to-attach round shafts and bores to hold them in the proper place since the design of most shafts or bores makes them difficult to attach to with other methods. A metric retaining ring clamps around them and creates a shoulder that keeps the part in place.

Hardware Everywhere offers hundreds of metric retaining rings to meet any application requirements. We can provide them both stacked and unstacked with various color platings. They also come made of steel, stainless, and bronze.

Put our 65 years of experience to work for you. We are the leading online distributor of retaining rings and any other hardware you may need. Call us at 1-800-432-8979 or contact us online with any questions or for a custom quote.