The Convenience of the Can Opener

I'm pretty sure the first time I used a manual can opener I had a college degree & was a homeowner. Furthermore, I think it was "by chance" that I had it - as in, it was part of a collection of things that many who knew I had gotten myself a house said, "Here's a box of items you might be able to use. If not, pass them along to someone you know who can." I've a lot of items I've accrued like this.

My parents had purchased a electric can opener, thus passing along their passé one onto me. Attending an event, I received a request, if I might have a can opener (it was assumed that I did, after all, I was a homeowner) that I'd bring it along. Someone at the event would likely need it (the event would include a potluck of sorts).

Not knowing how accessible electricity would be, let along counter space, & not wanting to drag along something the size & awkwardness of an electric can opener, I reached for the box which had been passed along to me. There lay a manual can opener. It immediately became the practical solution.

I believe that day it served its purpose & that is when I also came to appreciate the simplicity of a manual can opener. It's small, cleans simply, doesn't need a battery or electricity to operate, can fit conveniently just about anywhere, & doesn't easily damage. Soon afterward I found myself preferring this quaint can opener to the modern larger, electric, clumsy can opener.

In present day I've not had an electric can opener since "back then", & passed along the one my parents had passed to me to someone missing their own electric one. Nowadays I stick to reaching for my box of random items, never knowing when another clever & convenient tool will be needed.

While a stainless steel bamboo, or wooden handled can opener (with bottle opener tool) has its perks,


so does this basic black handled one with Good Grips Smooth Edge & Ergonomic Anti Slip.


Then again, if locating kitchen utensils in a large drawer or countertop container can be complicated, an all red can opener with rubberized knob may make all the difference.