Handchimes are musical instruments which are rung by hand, similar to handbell

Handbell

A handbell is a bell designed to be rung by hand. To ring a handbell, a ringer grasps the bell by its slightly flexible handle — traditionally made of leather, but often now made of plastic — and moves the wrist to make the hinged clapper inside the bell strike...

s. Typically, they are tuned

Musical tuning

In music, there are two common meanings for tuning:* Tuning practice, the act of tuning an instrument or voice.* Tuning systems, the various systems of pitches used to tune an instrument, and their theoretical bases.-Tuning practice:...

square tubes with an external clapper mechanism.
Many handbell techniques can also be applied to handchimes, though some are more difficult (such as six-in-hand) or impossible (malleting).

Uses

Handchimes were originally intended to be used as a training tool for prospective handbell ringers. They are cheaper, easier, lighter and more resilient than handbells, making them more accessible for school groups, church youth choirs and senior citizens' groups.

Handchimes are also frequently rung in conjunction with handbells. Certain handbell pieces will involve playing handbells and handchimes at the same time, or alternating between the two through various sections of the music. Handbell ensembles will frequently have a collection of handchimes to use along with their handbells.

Handchimes are also used in classrooms to teach music.

Manufacturers

As of 2009, there are 3 manufacturers of handchimes in the United States:

• Malmark (Choirchimes)
• Schulmerich (MelodyChimes)
• Suzuki (ToneChimes)