Abstract: A binder ring metal (10) includes binder rings (12-16) portions of which are installed on frame assemblies (18a, 18b) installed in a side-by-side relationship within a shield (20). A lever (22) is operatively connected with a travel bar (24) for movement of the lever to effect opening or closing of the rings. A gear mechanism (G) includes a plurality of gear teeth (30) are formed on lever, and a plurality of gear teeth (32) are formed on an adjacent surface of the travel bar. These teeth mesh with each other so movement of the lever by a user effects movement of the travel bar to respectively unblock or block movement of the frame assemblies, so the binder ring can open or close.