1. Historical Purpose: Threading a Key Ring
-
Early nail clippers were designed to attach to a keychain or small ring through that hole.
-
This made it easy to carry your clipper anywhere without losing it.
2. Modern Convenience: The “Catch” Feature
-
Some clippers allow you to hook a small chain or lanyard through the hole for easy access.
-
It also helps keep the metal lever aligned with the clipper body during use.
3. Functional Benefit for the Lever
-
The hole lets the lever pivot smoothly over the cutting edge.
-
Even though many clippers now have a pin or rivet, the hole remains part of the design for leverage mechanics.
4. Safety and Hygiene
-
Some people use the hole to hang the clipper after cleaning so it dries fully, reducing bacteria buildup.
💡 Fun Fact:
That tiny hole is a great example of “design that sticks around” — even if you don’t use it for a keychain, it makes the clipper work better and last longer.
If you want, I can also explain why some clippers have a built-in nail catcher and how it works with that hole—it’s a neat bit of engineering! Do you want me to?