Breaking a tungsten carbide or ceramic ring with locking pliers (vise grips)

If there is a possibility that the ring is steel or titanium, do not attempt breaking it since that may crush the ring onto the finger. Ensure eye protection for the patient and provider. Cover the skin under the ring and any open wounds with gauze to prevent injury from ring shards. A fireman, machinist, or other personnel with experience using locking pliers (vise grips) may be the best primary operators of this tool.

(A) Use the adjusting screw to size the pliers so they fit snugly around the circumference of the ring.