Also known as E-style rings, these rings have three prongs that make contact with the shaft and provide a wider shoulder than other external rings for a larger retaining surface. Use a side-mount retaining ring tool to push them into the groove from the side of the shaft.

65 Mn spring steel is an economical choice with good strength. A black-phosphate finish is mildly corrosion resistant in dry environments. In wet environments, a black dacromet coated finish  has good corrosion resistance.

Stainless steel 304 rings have high strength with good corrosion resistance. Rings are cold spring plain for added elasticity and hardness.

Stainless steel 316 rings are corrosion resistant in wet environments, nonmagnetic, and electrically conductive.