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Comment by Howard P Reynolds on January 3, 2016 at 12:05

While on the topic of can openers, I wanted to mention what I call a punch can opener.  These things were around forever, and while we weren't looking, they disappeared from the shelves of stores.  I live in PA and have not seen one in years, but maybe down south somewhere there are a few in some old hardware store, but good luck finding one.  These openers would puncture a hole and then by moving the handle back and forth, would open the can.

Here's a pic of the last iteration of the punch can opener.  Ecko made em.  Could only find a rusty image:

Here's a vintage one I picked up in an antique shop a couple years ago:

Comment by Howard P Reynolds on January 3, 2016 at 11:21

Clint,

For its size, the P-38 can opener has amazing utility.  The P-51 being a bit larger has better mechanical advantage.  These can openers are still being produced, both here and off shore so anybody can get them.  I think they are essential, and folks should pack one everywhere, as well as wear one around their necks.

P-38 with penny for size comparison:

P-38 & P-51:

Comment by Clint Thompson on January 3, 2016 at 8:43

Howard I carry in my pocket the very P-38 my Uncle Mike gave me in 1951.  I have used it many times. I have also used a pocket knife or fix blade to open a tin of beans. On long stakeouts I would have in supply of beans and lots of water. I would poke a hole in the top of the can and remover the label. I would then place the can upright on the hot car manifold and heat my beans. The same works by placing in some hot coals.

After the beans were hot I would open the can with my knife. A good sized knife will not be damaged by this process.

However, we all know we are the bunch who is prepared and will have our Leatherman Wave...or the like...to do the camp site duties.

Comment by Howard P Reynolds on January 2, 2016 at 22:19

Jan,
Please not the Tony Bose, LOL. Everybody should have a P-38 hanging around their neck.

Comment by Jan Carter on January 2, 2016 at 20:54

ok well the concrete works LOL

Dont tell Tony but if I was that hungry and it was life and death...I would use a darn Bose to open it

Featured Comment by Charles Sample on January 2, 2016 at 19:14

You are definitely right there James!

Comment by James Cole on January 2, 2016 at 17:32

"Trapped and facing certain death, Ralston chose a final option that later made him an international sensation: Using a multitool, the climber amputated his right hand, then rappelled to freedom."  Aron Ralston in National Geographic Magazine

Charles, I think that shows us that we will sacrifice much more than a knife to survive.

Comment by James Cole on January 2, 2016 at 17:21

Howard, Maybe I should have kept my keyboard in "check"; I hate it when I mispel a word.

Featured Comment by Charles Sample on January 2, 2016 at 16:37

LOL   My EDC is two Rough Riders, a $7 one and a $14 one.  So no question whatsoever with me!

Comment by Howard P Reynolds on January 2, 2016 at 15:41

James,

Hahahahaha.  Yep, tongue in cheek.  Life or knife?  Life's gonna win that one.

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