What is This Tool?
A curious questioner asked about an unfamiliar tool suspected to be an old can opener but had never seen one like it. Here’s a summary of various opinions and insights from people:
Identifying the Tool
Responses and Opinions:
- York Nutcracker: One person identified it as a York nutcracker, reminiscing about using it to crack pecans at their grandparents’ house in Lubbock, TX, a place known for prolific pecan trees.
- Pecan Sheller: Another agreed, calling it a pecan sheller.
- Multipurpose Use: Some mentioned using it to cut Jolly Ranchers for a freeze dryer.
- Other Guesses: Other suggestions included nutcracker, nut sheller, Rocky Mountain oyster shucker, and a notary or translator’s tool for making holes in papers.
Uncovering the Mystery
If you’ve come across an unfamiliar kitchen tool, it’s natural to wonder about its purpose and history. You suspect it’s an old can opener, but its design leaves you puzzled. Vintage can openers come in various forms, many looking quite different from the ones we use today. Let’s delve into the world of antique can openers to identify and understand the tool you’ve found.
Church Key Openers
Named after their resemblance to large keys used in churches, these typically have a pointed end for piercing and a flat end for prying.
How to Use It
- Examine the Tool: Look at the design and moving parts. Identify any sharp edges, wheels, or levers that might be used to pierce and cut the can.
- Pierce the Can: Most vintage can openers start with piercing the can. Place the pointed end or blade on the can’s top edge and apply pressure to puncture it.
- Rotate or Lever: Depending on the type, rotate a handle (like in a bunker or wheel can opener) or lever the blade around the can (as in a lever-type opener).
- Remove the Lid: Once the can is sufficiently opened, use the tool or your hands to carefully lift off the lid. Beware of sharp edges.
Common Types and Their Usage
- Key-Wind Can Openers: Insert the key into a tab on the can and turn. This rolls back a strip, creating an opening.
- Lever-Type Can Openers: After puncturing, rock the handle back and forth to cut around the lid.
- Bunker Can Openers: Clamp the tool onto the can, squeeze the handles, and rotate to cut the lid.
- Church Key Openers: Use the pointed end to puncture and the flat end to pry open the can.
Conclusion
Identifying and using vintage tools can be both fascinating and practical. The old can opener you’ve discovered showcases the ingenuity of past kitchen tool designs. By understanding its mechanics and proper usage, you can appreciate its historical value and perhaps even put it back to work. If your can opener doesn’t match these descriptions, consult antique kitchenware guides or seek help from a vintage tool expert. Happy can opening!
