FrankTalk.org

As for orientation I've only ever tried them with the handles to the sides so I'm not qualified to suggest anything else.

As for if they stretch out, well I don't think they last long enough without breaking to noticeably stretch, sorry.

the handles to the sides

I found this from a web site. If "handles to the side" is the only criteria, there is a 50-50 chance to correctly position!

Correct positioning of the tension ring is also necessary to keep the erection. Tension rings should be positioned so that the “U” shaped notch is on the bottom of the penis and the pressure points are at the top of the penis.

I have been using a Mach 1 from pos-t-vac. It is "thicker" than most others I have tried. Because of the thickness it seems to have more tension than others of the same diameter.

It has several downsides. Because of the thickness it is more difficult to remove when done. Harder to load cylinder and with 2 rings even more difficult even if one is a much thinner brand. Using one 2 to 3 times a week I can only get about 6 months before it splits.

Time to dip into my progeny's inheritance and experiment with Osbon rings

If you log to" tim medical" where you can buy parts, they have a info video how to use pumps, rings,etc.
any questions feel free.
mike

I have been "experimenting" with osbon rings the last few weeks. I found this chart is good to get one in the ballpark.
https://osbon.ca/tension-ring-guide/

Greyfox was correct when he said

I think its pretty much different for each person. You just have to keep trying until you find what's right for you.

Levels 4, 5, and 6 work well for me. 6 is too intense to use on a regular basis, but a good go to if all else fails. 5 is on the border of being too intense. Level 4 with the single medium high tension ring is almost just right. I have had good luck with using a large standard(A) and a large high tension(B). This combination feels to me a little less intense than a high tension medium. All the previous combos were used with my foam sleeve which alleviates some discomfort. I did use the medium high tension without the sleeve and added my Tantus 'C' ring. Will probably use that combo on occasion. There is more discomfort w/o the foam sleeve, but the sleeve kind of defeats the 'C' ring's purpose.

I use a lot of lube on the band and on the cylinder and application cone which allows the ring to slid easily onto the cylinder and onto the base of my erection. Maybe why my bands last for a year or more.

If you don’t have the “medical” type cylinder designed for band application, you can pump up an erection and lube up your dick and band then stretch out the band and slide it down your dick onto the base. This normally holds a good semi which you can improve into an erection by kegeling in some more blood.

I used the OSBON ERECAID SYSTEM before I had an implant. The cone applicator system cuts the rings. I use my hands alone. It takes experimentation. Post-implant I don't need them. OSBON ERECAID SYSTEM was covered by Medicare.

If you don't lube the applicator it will cut the rings. You must lube it.

I use the Encore erecaid. For my average 5.5' girth I found that 2 - #4 rings worked like a charm but did pinch a bit. Following a fellow FT member's advice:

Have you tried one of these?
http://uandmetime.com/products/store/#! ... ry=1213450
I barely feel the ring(s) go on and discomfort from the rings restriction is greatly reduced.

I got one of those and the comfort level was vastly improved.
It may be my imagination but it seems like lube will deteriorate the tension rings if left on too long so I clean them off asap and it seems to help prolong their life. I have found adwdiabetes.com to have about the best price for the rings. ~$10/pc

...lube will deteriorate the tension rings if left on too long...

A specific type or brand of lube?

I use a water based lube and I have been using my last two Osbon rings five or six days a week for over a year.

Erecaid is currently having a special on the tension bands - $18.95 with free shipping.