Online users recently went on a digital treasure hunt after one Redditor shared a photo of a strange metal item found in their grandma’s kitchen drawer. Believed to be a vintage can opener, it sparked curiosity and a flood of guesses—ranging from old military tools to camping gear.
Some users recognized it instantly, sharing stories of injuries from its jagged edges. “Still have a scar from one of these!” wrote one. Others joked it looked more like a weapon than a kitchen tool.
The mystery item turned out to be a 19th-century can opener, invented by Ezra Warner in 1858. Designed to pierce cans, it was used by the U.S. military during the Civil War. Later, William Lyman’s 1870 version introduced a rotating cutting wheel, making it safer and easier to use.
Can opener evolution:
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1858: Lever-style by Warner (military use)
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1870: Rotary design by Lyman
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Early 1900s: Built-in keys for rolling lids
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1930s: Electric openers
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1950s+: Ergonomic handhelds
Though modern can openers are safer and more efficient, some still prefer the vintage kind—scars and all.
So next time you find a weird old tool, share it online—you never know what piece of history you’ll uncover!