Bitcoin Forum

Hello everyone,

I'm getting a little worried about the upcoming potential split and would like to safeguard against it by obtaining both types of bitcoin should that be the case.

However, I am confused on how I obtain the private keys.  Would someone kindly explain how to ensure that I receive both coins such as what software wallet to use along with how to use the private keys to obtain both coins?

Thank you!

You should use any desktop wallet listed here: https://bitcoin.org/en/choose-your-wallet that has "Full Validation" or "Simplified Validation" and "Control Over Your Money" listed in their descriptions. These wallets will give you the choice of blockchain to use (mostly) and full control over your private keys.

Thank you! So Bitcoin Armory would allow me to access both coins after a potential split?

Most likely you'll need to download another client if you want access to what will be considered the new altcoin after a potential chain split.  Holding your BTC at an address you own the keys to will only ensure that you will have access to the new altcoins should you decide to claim them later.

Armory uses Bitcoin Core to handle all of the blockchain stuff, so Armory will use whatever chain Bitcoin Core is following. You can have Bitcoin Core choose the blockchain to use, although switching blockchains may have some unintended consequences with Armory.