A simple tool with two primary variations
The standard can opener that you’re likely used to seeing, whether hand crank, electric, or manual puncture, functions by slicing through the top lid of the can in small increments. This cut occurs either inside the rolled rim of the can or on the exterior of the can below the rim. Typically known as the rotating wheel can opener.
A second functional variation of the can opener does not utilize a two handle clamping design at all. Through turning the crank, a small disc presses against the seam of the can cutting cleanly while pressing the thin metal back into itself. This creates a lid that comes off easily with no sharp edges and leaves a smooth rim inside the can. Even though this design dates back to 1925, it’s uncommon enough that it doesn’t have a consistent name, but generally, safety can opener is applicable.
Cutting Can Opener
Pros
- Widely Used
- Inexpensive
- Readily Available
- Does not usually expose glue
- Highly Compatible
Cons
- Cutting Wheel Contacts Food
- Requires Cleaning
- Always Leaves a Lip that Catches Food and Sauce
- Requires High Grip Strength in Both Hands
Safety Can Opener
Pros
- Never Contacts Food
- Requires No Cleaning
- Less Moving Parts
- Requires Very Little Hand Strength
- Lids Can be Replaced for Fridge Storage
- Inexpensive
- Does not Trap Food Against an Interior Lip
- Lids and Cans are Never Sharp
Cons
- Exposes Glue in Crimp Edge
- Slight Learning Curve
- Not Common in Stores
Opinion:
The Safety Can Opener is functionally superior in practical use. Even considering the exposed can glue (which is non toxic and bio degradable by necessity of being used in a food container) and relearning a new device, the advantages of this type of can opener are numerous. After personally switching to this type 4 years ago, I can’t imagine ever going back. Prior to this, every can opener I had used with a cutting wheel and two handles had inevitably required cleaning, succumbed to rust and corrosion, or broken from the repeated action of being clamped against the can edge to make the initial piercing cut into the lid. The Smooth Edge Opener is gentle and requires less force to initiate the opening action, leaves a reusable lid for refrigerator storage, and leaves a completely smooth and safe edge on both the lid and can. For the same price as a normal can opener with no functional downsides, this will be my last can opener. Since it requires no routine cleaning and never touches the contents of the can, my can opener is as clean and corrosion free as when it came out of it’s package. You may not be convinced to switch your current can opener while it still works, but when it does eventually fail due to grime, corrosion, or a loose pivot or crank, consider switching to this alternate variation of the can opener. A non-affiliate link is provided below to the product which I’ve personally used for 4 years on a weekly basis. I receive absolutely no commission or perks for these product recommendations.