One of the first toys I acquired was a cock ring. C-rings not only help guys maintain an erection longer but also look great. They come in two basic types – those that stretch (and, therefore, are easier to remove) and those that are rigid (most of these are made from metal). From a personal standpoint, I've always used the kind that stretch. I've always been a bit concerned that I’d get stuck in a metal one and that would require an embarrassing trip to the emergency to get it sawed off. Not my idea of a good time!

However, as I enjoy using them, I thought I’d try something a bit different – the C-Ring Intermediate by Tantus. It not only appears to be more substantial than other, less expensive cock rings, but as it’s made from silicone, it has a bit of stretch to it but not nearly as much as less-hefty ones. I also thought it might make my junk look rather cool.

Needless to say, I was eager to try it out when it first arrived. Although I've now had this for a very long time (seven months), I’ve given up trying to get it on. The problem is that while I’m just an average size guy, the total circumference around my complete package seems to be quite large and I can’t get the C-Ring Intermediate on!

As this cock ring will only stretch just a little bit, in order to get it on, it’s necessary to use the same procedures as that used with metal rings, specifically:

1. Put some lube on the ring
2. Place one ball through the ring, and then the other
3. Insert your flaccid penis

Unfortunately, I simply can’t fit into the Tantus Intermediate Ring and I've been trying for months. I've used gallons of lube in the process and no matter what I try, I simply can’t get this ring on. Overall, this is disappointing as the cock ring looks great – it’s substantial and has a nice feel to it.

The Tantus C-Ring Intermediate is made from the finest silicone and has a rather velvety feel to it. According to EF, this cock ring is manufactured from food-grade material (not sure why anyone would want to eat it) and is hypo-allergenic. It comes in black (which matches everything) and has a matte finish. Another feature is that it does have a bit of stretch to it but not enough for me. There is no perceptible smell or taste to this ring.

As with all cock rings, the Tantus comes in one shape – round (imagine that?!). It is, however, shaped more like metal cock rings in that it appears more like a belt for your junk rather than just a tube that fits around it. It has a very clean, masculine design: utilitarian and yet attractive.

As I've already indicated, this cock ring simply won’t work for some men – even though it has a maximum stretched diameter of 2 inches (the unstretched diameter is 1 7/8 inches). It helps to measure yourself first before ordering. I will say that I've got other cock rings that are of the same diameter and I am able to wear them as they stretch more.

If you are on the bigger side, you should measure before you buy this. In fact, that goes for all cock rings. Measure first!

As far as sex toys go, cock rings are about as simple as they get. Once you get one on around your dick or your total package, they restrict blood flow and therefore help maintain an erection. They should not be worn for more than 30 minutes as that can lead to damage. One good thing – cock rings don’t require batteries!

Silicone is extremely easy to care for as it can be cleaned with mild soap and water (I often clean toys made from it in the shower). Only water-based lubes should be used; however, silicone-based lubes can cause damage.

The Tantus C-Ring Intermediate comes in a standard molded plastic blister-pack. Although it can be used for storage, it’s rather large. As the ring is easy to store, I don't think it's necessary to keep the package.

Although I really wanted to use this product, and it appears to be of very high quality, it’s simply too small. I've now had it for seven months and have never been able to get it on. If I had been successful, I would have given it five stars.