Abstract: A handle applicator for applying a handle having an attachment ring onto a neck of a container by expanding the ring as the ring is being applied. The applicator includes a plurality of circumferentially positioned arms each having a distal end. The arms are moveable between a radially outward first position and a radially inward second position. In the second position, the arms generally define a diameter over which the ring can be positioned onto the arms. The arms also each include a ramp surface and these surfaces cooperate to define a frusto-conical shape when the arms are in the first position. The applicator also includes a plurality of fingers that are generally located radially outward from the arms and which are being biased such that arm contacting portions of the fingers contact the arms. The fingers are movable toward and away from the distal ends of the arms so that the arm contacting portions will engage and push a ring located on the arms up the ramp surfaces.