Is it necessary to buy a special tool to open the chain lock I've installed a chain lock to my chain. It looks like this (mine is not KMC):



Now I need to unlink the chain to clean it, but I can't do it: the lock is too tight. I found a special tool on ebay to open such locks:



http://www.ebay.com/itm/KMC-Missing-Link-Removal-Tool-Fast-and-Effective-Black-/171101004843?pt=AU_Sport_Cycling_Parts&amp;hash=item27d66a242b


Is it the correct tool to open the chain lock?
Is it possible to open it using home tools?
That is the appropriate tool to open KMC (and similar) style missing links.
It is possible to open them with some needle nose pliers but is much easier with a missing link removal tool and you are less likely to damage the chain (or yourself.)