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So... For a really long time I've been wondering why everyone opens the ration cans, specially the old ones using either a can opener like a P-38 or the metal tab and the key opener... That damages the can quite a lot, so I've been wondering why no one used this kind of can openers, like the one in this video :
With that you get to open the can as little damage as possible... I don't know if I'm missing something obvious but to me it looks like the best way to preserve it for display...
Also if you have something in the can like a piece of bread, cheese or a cinnamon roll its much easier to take it out

This can opener cuts on the outside of the rim of the can, not the inside

Been using these for a few years, was wondering if there was an even better way. I now use a battery operated "open on the outside" opener. Just stick it on top and it spins around by itself.

I´m using a Tupperware can opener since 2009 for my rations:
viewtopic.php?f=4&t=2607&

housil wrote: ↑

Wed Jan 30, 2019 5:32 am

I´m using a Tupperware can opener since 2009 for my rations:
viewtopic.php?f=4&t=2607&

What a gorgeous ration! Those pate cans... You make me envious
I think the result you get from using a can opener like this is way better...
I personally have plans on one day opening a MCI or other vintage ration, empty the contents and reseal it filled with sand/paraffin at the same weight as it was originally... I think that gets quite close to the best posible conservation method for displaying a can...
I have to practice it with regular cans before I do it with a historical one, I don't want to ruin it XD

Open the bottom, not the top. So it keeps it genuine look.

i also want to try and see if i can avoid the marks that leaves the cog on the can, maybe with masking tape or plaster or something similar

Try that Tupperware opener, he does not create that cog.