We’ve had bad luck with can openers over the years at the CDC. We open so, so many cans and they wear out quickly. We’ve had hand-crank models, electric, the kind that cuts a smooth lip, and the old-timey army model. (That one is actually the most reliable.) Once Lloyd and I were at a surplus auction and they had one of those serious hand-cranked models, so we bought it. There was no base, though, and no place to put it at the old place.
The new place has plenty of room, though, so I bought a base. Then I looked at the blade of the opener and saw that it was all nicked up. “That’s ok. I have a whetstone!” It took a lot of looking – and eventually I had to ask Lloyd where it was. (In the knife drawer of all places. I never would have looked there. I’m not very bright.) Anyway, I did that whetstone thing you do, and….
Shazaam! Installed! I was so excited I looked around for something to open. This is a big ol’ can of ketchup and I was very happy to open it and refill the ketchup bottles. Oh, lovely opener, how I admire your strength.
Now…. there is a terrible can opener that lives in the church kitchen. You’re next, mister. There’s got to be metal underneath all that rust.
Update: There was. It looks great now. No photo yet.
Brad says
I think you meant to say: “There’s got to be metal under all that botulism.”
Deborah says
Ha!
Lauren says
You are not kidding. I think I am the only one to ever have used this in years. I opened a can of chili for the potato bake and then saw how gross it was. Sorry for poisoning you all, Seward.
Deborah says
Thanks for fixing the kitchen can opener.
Lauren says
The trick is going to be to remember to put it back.
Kristi says
That is a serious can-opener. Where can I get one?
Lauren says
My dad can hook you up with one on ebay. Thanks for the links, Dad! 😉