A hand tool adapted to manipulate and open split rings is provided. The hand tool has two elements both having handles operatively associated so that the distal end jaw portions of the elements are movable between a closed and an open position. An opening jaw has a penetrating probe for opening convolution of a split ring, while the opposing supporting jaw provides a supporting surface acting as an anvil providing opposing force to the other linear elements probe. The split ring is generally disposed around the spaced apart opposing jaws, permitting the probe to penetrate the convolutions over a deeper range because there is no limitation created by the opposing jaw.