1. Location and Design
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The hole is usually at the tip of the lever arm, the part you lift up to clip nails.
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Its size is small, roughly the diameter of the clipper’s central screw.
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It looks like it’s just a decorative circle, but it’s functional.
2. Primary Function: Makeshift Screwdriver
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Nail clippers have a small central pin or screw that holds the two main parts together. Over time, this screw can loosen, making the clipper wobbly.
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That tiny round hole is designed to fit the lever piece. When you insert the lever into the hole and turn, you can:
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Tighten a loose screw
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Loosen a stuck screw
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Essentially, the hole + lever acts like a mini screwdriver, so you don’t need extra tools.
3. How to Use It Step by Step
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Remove the lever from the clipper (it usually pops off easily).
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Insert the narrow end of the lever into the small hole.
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Turn the lever like a screwdriver on the clipper’s central screw.
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Once tightened or loosened, put the lever back on to resume normal clipping.
4. Other Uses (Optional / Less Known)
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Some people use it to clean under nails by sliding the lever tip into the hole and using it as a small scraper.
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It can also act as a tiny hook for opening small objects in a pinch.
Fun fact: This hole has been on clippers since at least the early 20th century, but most users think it’s just decorative. It’s one of those “hidden features” that only becomes obvious if you look closely.
If you want, I can draw a diagram showing exactly how the lever + hole works, which makes it way easier to understand visually. Do you want me to do that?
