WWI Can Opener
As most food rations issued to soldiers such as Hard Bread or the Doughboys’ favorite canned peaches and other items that could be transported had to be issued in tightly sealed metal containers to prevent the spoiling of food on the long journey to the front. As a result of this, many US soldiers had to be issued can openers such as this one. This article will talk about three variants of these can openers and all are lever-type tin openers. Lever-type can openers all feature two types of riveted steel, allowing the blades to be replaced if worn out.
(Variant 1) Pat. 7-19-04 "Sure Cut"
Also known as the Sure Cut Can Opener, This particular variant resembles the Halberds that were used during the European Medieval Period. These were often used both among soldiers and civilians alike. It’s separated into multiple riveted or soldered parts rather than a mostly singular cast iron piece and blade, as well as features a cap lifter. The grip is made of a wooden material. The patent of the model is dated to July 19, 1904.
(Variant 2) Pat. 5-17-02
This second variant features two pieces of steel, riveted together by two bolts at the top of the can openers. This version has no handle or grip and instead features a gap down at the bottom. This item features a stamping on the hilt stating that it was Patented on May 17th, 1902. Some versions resembling this one were issued to domestic markets and the British Army was molded to look like Cows or Bulls to market canned beef.
(Variant 3) Unknown Patent
This final variant has no known patent, however, it features the same two riveted pieces of steel in construction as the second variant. However, unlike that version, the crimp of steel at the top is symmetrical.
American Militaria Reference
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