Two questions about the new Arc.

Can the clip be slipped off without scratching up the surface, and has anyone removed the key ring?

Yes, the clip can easily be removed without scratching. The key ring requires a bit of care to remove, it has quite a point and could scratch if not careful.

Has anyone simply tried to use wire cutters to remove the ring?

I just got mine yesterday and removed the clip instantly without any scratches. The finish on the light is tougher than the clip, evidently. You can either just slide the clip off the side of the light or take the head off the light and slide the clip off the front. I thought about removing the key ring but it's so tiny that I don't mind leaving it there as an option attachment point if I ever should need it. My new Arc-P is a pocket light for the time being, though, as its really too good to be left on my keychain which I don't always have with me.