why are my medal clips not loading

If you are an athlete or a collector of medals, you must have experienced the annoyance of not being able to clip your medals properly. This is a common problem that many people face, and it can be frustrating when you have worked hard to earn those medals, and the clips just won't load. In this article, we will explore the possible reasons why your medal clips are not loading.

The Anatomy of a Medal Clip

Before diving into the possible causes behind the malfunctioning medal clips, it is essential to understand the anatomy of the clip. A typical medal clip comprises two parts- the bottom part, also known as the bar, and the top part, which is the swivel. The bar is the part that holds the ribbon, while the swivel is the part that attaches the medal to the bar. The swivel moves around the bar, allowing the medal to rotate and be displayed correctly. The locking mechanism is a spring-loaded piece that secures the whole mechanism and allows the bar to slide in and out.

Reasons Why Medal Clips Don't Load

Now that we have a clear understanding of what a medal clip is let's take a closer look at some reasons why they may malfunction. Here's a rundown of some possible causes:

1. Rust and corrosion

Rust and corrosion are the most common reasons why medal clips fail. If the clips are old or have been exposed to moisture or harsh weather conditions, they may become rusted or corroded, making it difficult for the swivel to move around the bar. This can lead to the clip being hard to load or even locking up completely.

2. Debris and dirt buildup

Another reason why medal clips may not load is due to dirt and debris buildup. Over time, dirt and debris can accumulate inside the locking mechanism, preventing the clip from opening and locking correctly. A simple solution is to clean the clip with a soft-bristled brush or a dry cloth to remove any accumulated dirt.

3. Misalignment

If the medal clip is not aligned correctly, it can prevent the bar from sliding in and out of the swivel, leading to loading difficulties. To fix this problem, gently align the two pieces back into position, making sure that they are lined up correctly.

Conclusion

In conclusion, malfunctioning medal clips can be frustrating, and it's essential to understand the reasons behind it to fix the problem. Rust and corrosion, debris buildup, and misalignment are some of the most common reasons why the clips do not load. Keep your medals clean and dry, and if you notice any issues with the clips, take the time to troubleshoot before giving up hope on your hard-earned medals. With a little bit of patience and understanding, you will be able to reload your medal clips with ease.