First use: unfold the belt, remove the plastic protective film from the metal, thread the belt through the loops on the pants, put the belt in the buckle, and then slide the pin in the closed position. The metal pin broke into 2 equal pieces instantly, silently and cleanly, just like other bad reviews describing the same thing. I have had Columbia products in the past and they have been quality items. .However, this belt is not good. *Update: Since I was still at the window to return the belt, I did. I opted for a new belt instead of a refund. I know. Surprisingly however. A replacement belt arrived after 20 hours. Long story short, a piece of metal with "teeth" protruding into the cotton belt emerged after about 2 minutes of wear. I put it back in place and hammered the metal into place. . GARBAGE. It's not even worth taking and posting photos. AVOID THIS WASTE.