A can opener is the main assistant in the kitchen in almost any task. It helps the user to open different types of cans easily. The main distinguishing feature of modern can openers is safety. Thanks to this, even children can use them. In this article we will look at the seven best can openers and determine the main criteria for a good choice.
How the can opener came to be
Before talking about the origin of the can opener, it is worth touching on the history of the origin of the canned food itself. They appeared during the time of Napoleon, when his army needed long-term storage of food. Napoleon's army was not small, therefore, a lot of food was also needed, and they had to be stored for a long time. Then the pastry chef Apper suggested canning the food. At first glass jars were used for this, but they were impractical and fragile. Therefore, they began to look for other ways to solve this problem. This is how tin cans for storing food were invented. And here the question arose of how to open such banks.
They were used not only by soldiers, but also on expeditions. Manufacturers wrote on their cans that you should use a hammer and chisel to open them. It was very problematic and inconvenient.
Since thick tin cans were very difficult to open, later they began to use thinner tin. And already in 1858 the first can opener was patented. Its inventor was Ezra Warner. This knife was called the “bull’s head”. This product had two blades. One of them was straight and sharp, and the second was curved. A straight blade was used to pierce a can, and a curved blade was used to cut tin. The "Bull's Head" opened not only canned food, but could also open the lids of bottles and cans.
About 10 years later, another American inventor proposed using a cutting wheel to open it. His tool was a kind of compass; now, to open a tin can, you had to stick one leg into the center of the can, and the second rotated along the edge of the lid. Later this design was improved. A gear has been added to the product. So, when opening the can, its rim was fixed between the blade and the gear. At the same time, during opening, the blade did not slip, and the cut was smooth and had no jagged edges. This mechanism is still used today, only the models began to be supplemented with magnets and electric drives.
What types of can openers are there?
On store shelves you can find a large selection of this tool for opening cans. They may differ in material of manufacture, size, shape, and most importantly, mechanism.
The simplest option is a hand knife. This option is close to the first version of the can opener invented by Ezra Warner. This knife has a handle, which can be made of wood, metal or plastic, and two knives with a jumper. The jumper is necessary to provide support when opening the can. The knives differ in size; a long blade is used to open tin cans, and a small rounded knife is designed to uncork caps from glass jars or bottles.
The next option is a mechanical knife. Its design is a little more complicated than the manual model. When using it, you first need to make a hole, then secure the product well on the side of the can and rotate the mechanism. Strong metal is used in their manufacture, and to create comfort during use, the handles are made with plastic, rubber or wooden linings. It is worth noting that after opening the cans with such a knife, they do not have sharp edges that can cause you to cut yourself.
The third option is an automatic can opener. Such models are very popular today due to their ease of use. This device uses batteries to operate. To open a can, you just need to touch the device and start the mechanism. It is worth noting that the lid will open from the inside, so the edges will not only be smooth, but also smoothed, so it will be impossible to get hurt. These models also have a magnet, with the help of which the lid will be removed immediately after opening. The main advantages of such models are convenience, compactness and durability. But still, before use, you should carefully study the instructions and follow all safety rules.
Well, the last type is an electric “opener”. The design of this product consists of an electric motor, a clamp and a cutting mechanism. Different models may differ in design, but the operating principle remains the same. Before you start working with such a kitchen assistant, you should secure the jar with a lock, and then the mechanism will start. When the device finishes working, the can is removed from the latch. The main advantage of these models is safety and speed, but still, electric models are bulky and will not work in the absence of electricity.
Features and purpose
In the first half of the 20th century, the manual can opener was improved, and the useful invention became extremely easy to use. Since then, little has changed: despite the presence of several modern varieties of this instrument, the design still involves the presence of a handle and an iron plate, often made in the shape of a horn. Sometimes there are two such plates - for convenient opening of cans of any size, as well as bottles, homemade sealers. The design of the knife may also include the presence of gears. This opener is universal, it is also suitable for any diameter of cans, and does not form torn nicks on the rim.
Modern can openers are indispensable assistants for every housewife, designed for everyday household needs. This type of tool is significantly different from its conventional kitchen counterpart. First of all, the shape and size of the blade. Specialized, more complex knives, which are designed for easy and quick opening of containers, have a number of additional parts: handles, wheels, motors, magnets. A characteristic feature of modern products is a special operating mechanism that ensures there is no contact with the contents of the jar. You can be sure that microscopic metal particles will not get into your food.
Some models of can openers provide the ability to customize the tool for a specific user, based on whether he is right-handed or left-handed.
Operating rules
Even when using the simplest “opener” model, problems may arise due to failure to comply with certain nuances. So, if you have a manual version of the product, then the cutting element is installed perpendicular to the can, after which you need to press on the handle to create a hole. In this case, it is necessary to hold the can tightly so that it does not slip during the process. When the hole is made, the cutting element is inserted there and moved forward with progressive movements. Such an opener will leave nicks on the lid, so you should remove it with extreme caution.
For owners of a mechanical model, place the can under the wheel and secure the wedge. Afterwards you can start turning the mechanism. In this case, the edges will not have jagged edges and there will be no problems when removing the cover.
To use the electric version of the knife, you need to lift the cutting part and fix the can under it. In this case, the edge of the can should be under the knife. After this, the cutting part is lowered and the mechanism starts. Such devices have a magnet that will hold the lid. When the knife makes a circle, you will need to lift the cutting head and remove the can.
Sterilization methods
Experienced housewives have several methods in their arsenal to get rid of invisible bacteria. They know how to properly sterilize lids with rubber bands in any canning conditions. This helps to comply with the rules when there is a lack of water or heat. Often you have to urgently prepare grown vegetables or fruits at your dacha.
There is little time, gas and water need to be saved. But you still need to preserve it. Knowledge of effective sterilization methods will help you prepare tasty preserves under unfavorable conditions. Sterilization is the destruction of dangerous bacteria by raising the temperature to 100 degrees Celsius or higher. But such conditions are also dangerous for humans.
Criterias of choice
To make a canned knife easy to use, you should consider several criteria before purchasing. Since you can find many different models on store shelves, first of all you should decide on the most suitable mechanism.
After this, you should study the material of manufacture; not only ease of use, but also the durability of the device will depend on this. Dimensions and weight also play an important role. If the model is too heavy, it will create inconvenience during work. And large devices will take up a lot of space when stored. The handles must be made of non-slip material, otherwise you can easily get hurt or knock over the jar while working.
When purchasing an electrical device, you need to pay attention to the type of power supply, cord length and material of manufacture. During operation, they should not slide on the tabletop, otherwise use will be unsafe.
It will also be very useful if the product, in addition to opening cans, has additional functionality. For example, the ability to open bottles. This will help you avoid buying additional accessories and save space in your cabinets for storing kitchen equipment.
Safety precautions when opening a can without an opener
If you don’t have an opener at hand, then all sorts of improvised objects are used. Usually spoons, forks, ordinary knives and even pliers are used for this.
- In order to open a tin can using these items, you need to have sufficient physical strength and be especially careful. It is best to open canned food together, so that one person ensures the can remains motionless, and the other makes a hole.
- To protect the skin of your hands from cuts, you can use work gloves made of thick material or wrap them in several layers of fabric.
- Particular care should be taken when opening with a regular kitchen knife. The method is quite dangerous and one careless movement can easily cause injury. It is especially dangerous to open a can with a knife, placing it on your knees or between them.
Best Mechanical Can Openers
Tefal Comfort
With Tefal Comfort you can easily and quickly open a can. The cutting part is made of steel, so during operation there will be no rust or darkening on the metal. Operation will be convenient, since the manufacturer used lightweight but durable plastic. The handle has an ergonomic shape, so “Tefal Comfort” will fit comfortably in your hand and will not slip when opening. For convenient storage there is a hole in the handle, with its help the product can be hung on a hook.
"Tefal Comfort" is available in black. To clean the opener, both manual and machine washing is allowed.
The average cost is 1900 rubles.
Tefal Comfort can opener
Advantages:
- Durable plastic;
- When cutting, it does not create nicks;
- Sharp cutting part;
- Ergonomic design;
- Verified manufacturer.
Flaws:
- High price.
Joseph Joseph Can-Do
British has long established itself as a reliable manufacturer of kitchen appliances. And the Can-Do opener is proof of this statement. First of all, it should be noted that only environmentally friendly materials are used for production, which are also not afraid of thermal effects.
The “Can-Do” handle has an ergonomic shape, so operating the device will not cause any difficulties. This will ensure a secure grip on the lid, allowing it to be easily removed after opening. The fixation on the canned food will be tight, which will prevent the device from slipping out. And the rotary mechanism and a sharp steel knife can easily cope with any metal. It is also worth noting that such a device will be equally convenient to use for right-handers and left-handers.
The size of “Can-Do” is 7*5.5*5.5 cm, and the weight is 100 grams.
The average cost is 1600 rubles.
can opener Joseph Joseph Can-Do
Advantages:
- Ease of use;
- Compact size;
- Steel knife;
- Reliable fixation;
- Positive customer reviews.
Flaws:
- Not detected.
Marvel
This model has a rigid fastening and a rotating mechanism, thanks to which opening canned food does not take much time and effort. The Marvel body and cutting mechanism are made of stainless steel. This way, even with frequent use of the opener, rust will not appear on the metal and it will not change color. For additional convenience, the handles have plastic inserts that will prevent slipping.
The size of “Marvel” is 25 * 7.5 * 6 cm, and weight is 270 grams.
The average cost is 450 rubles.
Marvel can opener
Advantages:
- Material of manufacture;
- The handles have plastic inserts;
- Quick and easy opening of cans;
- Stylish design;
- Affordable price.
Flaws:
- Not suitable for all types of cans.
Taller TR-5151
With the help of "Taller TR-5151" you can easily open any tin can. This model has a cutting part made of alloy steel, and its body is made of zinc alloy with chrome plating. The Taller TR-5151 handles have an ergonomic shape, and to eliminate slipping during operation, the manufacturer added a silicone coating.
The size of “Taller TR-5151” is 22*1*6.8 cm. Caring for this opener will not require much effort, and you can even wash it in the dishwasher.
The average cost is 850 rubles.
can opener Taller TR-5151
Advantages:
- Does not leave nicks;
- Ease of use;
- Stylish design;
- Non-slip handles.
Flaws:
- Not detected.
Tescoma GrandChef
This model from the Czech brand “Tescoma” will be appreciated by both housewives and professional chefs. A special feature of “Tescoma GrandChef” is the ability to open not only cans, but also bottles with crown caps. To make the body of such an opener, the manufacturer used metal with a treated surface and a matte finish. And the cutting element is made of high quality stainless steel. The sharp Tescoma GrandChef blade can easily cut through a tin can without leaving any sharp edges or nicks that can be dangerous.
The length of “Tescoma GrandChef” is 21 cm and the width is 5.5 cm. Weight is about 200 grams. Dishwasher safe.
The average cost is 1000 rubles.
Tescoma GrandChef can opener
Advantages:
- Sharp blade;
- Original design;
- Suitable for opening bottles;
- Verified manufacturer.
Flaws:
- There are no anti-slip inserts.
Comparison table of characteristics
Next, we are pleased to present to your attention a table with the main technical parameters of each described position.
| Name | Size(cm) | Weight (g) | Loop presence | Cost, rub) |
| JOSEPH CAN-DO | 10x10x5 | 100 | – | 300 – 450 |
| NADOBA SIRENA | 25x11x5 | 390 | – | 500 – 700 |
| TEFAL INGENIO | 12x20x6 | 240 | – | 300 – 400 |
| Tescoma Presto | 22x9x4 | 100 | + | 200 – 250 |
| Fackelmann Lichfield | 17x15x2 | 120 | + | 90 – 150 |
| 6 in 1 Kitchen CanDo | 6x19x5 | 190 | – | 100 – 250 |
| Regent Inox | 11x21x5 | 240 | + | 200 – 300 |
Best Electric Can Openers
Rommelsbacher DO 65
With the Rommelsbacher DO 65 you can quickly and most importantly safely open a tin can. It can easily handle canned goods weighing no more than 850 grams. When the can is installed, the Rommelsbacher DO 65 will automatically start working, and the device will also turn off when it has completed a full circle. The lid will be securely fixed with a magnetic holder, which will prevent your hands from getting dirty.
The Rommelsbacher DO 65 body is made of plastic, and the cutting elements are made of steel. It is worth noting that the case has an additional bottle opener, as well as a knife sharpener. The size of “Rommelsbacher DO 65” is 22.4 * 13.5 * 13.5 cm. The power of the device is 60 W.
The average cost is 3,500 rubles.
can opener Rommelsbacher DO 65
Advantages:
- Easy operation;
- Sharp knife;
- There is a place to store the power cord;
- There is a bottle opener and a knife sharpener.
Flaws:
- Hard to find on sale.
Kitchen Tools
This model belongs to automatic models of openers. To operate the device you will need 4 AA batteries. When the batteries are installed, the device is installed on the can, with the edges being between the blade and the gear. There is no need to hold the device, you just need to press the power button. During this time, the opener will be held securely on the can using a magnet. When the device goes through a full circle, it will automatically turn off.
The Kitchen Tools body is made of plastic, and the cutting element is made of stainless steel. The size of the device is 12*7 cm. To clean the opener, you can use a soft damp cloth. Washing the device is not allowed.
The average cost is 2500 rubles.
Kitchen Tools can opener
Advantages:
- Compact size;
- Ease of use;
- Automatic operation;
- Reliability.
Flaws:
- Not detected.
Endever Smart-25
This model can be called a universal opener. With its help, you can not only open cans of any size, but also bottles with metal caps and sharpen knives. The body of the device is quite high, so you can place a jar of any size, while continuous cutting will occur and the lid will not have sharp edges. When the lid is completely open, the device will automatically turn off.
The size of "Endever Smart-25" is 11.2 * 9.8 * 22.5 cm, and weight is 750 grams. In this case, the device has a power of 70 W.
The average cost is 1000 rubles.
can opener Endever Smart-25
Advantages:
- Compact size;
- Sharp blade;
- Stylish design;
- There is a device for sharpening knives and opening bottles;
- Ease of use.
Flaws:
- Not detected.
