A long-lasting can opener
Six years ago I got fed up after a can opener broke — it was the standard type with a circular blade, plastic handles you squeeze, and a gear you turn. I think that can opener sparked my passion for researching well made things.
Perhaps you've experienced this before — not long after buying one of these can openers the blade gets blunt, the cogs skip teeth as you turn the gears, and you can't eat your beans.
Obviously it is tempting to spend $5 on a can opener instead of $30. But as with all cheaply made things you end up paying again to replace it. You also pay with frustration and hunger if you cannot get into the can.
Additionally, cans with ring pulls costs more money12 Does big ring pull flood the market with shoddy can openers to keep you thinking that the ring pulls are easier?
After the great can opener reckoning of 2020, I found a good can opener — not only does it still work great. It also has other features that make it one of my favourite things.
Here is a link for you to buy it followed by reasons I love it so:
Affiliate link for durable can opener
Nogent Super Kim Safety Can Opener – Amazon*
*If you use this link I will earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. You will also be supporting the ultra wealthy in their quest for world domination.
Reasons I recommend this can opener
- Durability. It is entirely made of thick steel except for a little bit of rubber where you turn the mechanism.
- No squeezing. Unlike many can openers you don't have to squeeze the handles to maintain pressure on the can. Instead the mechanism on this one forces a small blade into the top of the can and holds it there until you're done.
- One handed. Many can openers require one hand to squeeze and one to turn the mechanism. This can opener only requires one hand to turn so the other hand can hold the can steady. You don't have to put the can down on a flat surface to use it.
- Small. It is much smaller than most can openers — so you save valuable kitchen space too.
- Physically easier to use. I have tested it on others and the consensus is it's physically easier to open cans with it compared to a bad can opener.
- Delightful. It's just nice to have thoughtfully designed, well made things.