Abstract: A mechanism useful as a slip clutch or brake comprises a first member having a cylindrical inner wall, a second generally cylindrical member received coaxial within the first member and at least one third generally annular member between the first and second members and having frictional engagement with the inner wall of the first member. The second member has a longitudinal recess defined by a chordal wall or walls on radii from the longitudinal axis of the second member. The at least one third member has its ends bent inwardly forming arms extending inwardly into the recess and arranged to be contacted by or contact one of the recess defining walls upon rotation of one of said first and second members. Upon rotation of the first member as a driving member, the second member is driven through the frictional contact of the third member with the inner wall and the arms of the at least one third member acting on the recess defining walls.