MREInfo.com

New member, long-time lurker who finally has a question that I can't find an answer to: does anyone know where on the internet I can find a video showing how to properly use the can opener on the German mess kit utensil set? I've eaten MCI's back in the 70's, and had my share of most of the MRE's as they have come out, but can't figure out how to use this can opener.

Sure, the P38 and it's siblings are easy to understand, but I can't find a person who can show me the answer to this tool. I've asked co-workers who have also been in the military (one whose Father in Law is a retired German Senior NCO), and we can't figure it out. I've guessed that the L-shaped hook part goes under the rim of the can, and that the longer "spike" or chisel part is to cut thru the top of the can, but I can't figure out how you get it to properly cut the lid. I have tore up a few cans trying this (thus making the wife quit mad), but I can't seem to get the spike to move along the lid while cutting. Am I doing it wrong? Is this thing made to cut thru the side of the lid or the top?

After asking a dozen friends about this, they also said that it sure would be nice if someone who knows the answer would post a video of it. Maybe American soup cans are just too small for this tool and it only works on hefty German ration cans?

Firestarter, first of all, welcome at forums

Too bad I have my right arm strapped to my belly after a shoulder surgery for 6 weeks, but I could show you if you can wait a little bit

Maybe my picture will help your in-law to refresh his memory

Housil,
So it's more of a "stab-push-lever-stab-push-lever" action instead of the P38 using the "twist-move-twist-move" action? I will try this way when the wife is out of the kitchen

And I thought (along with many others) that the L-shaped part went under the can rim! That also sort of explains the cheap copy of the French Army kit I had. That had a knurled knob on the can opener that made no sense to me. That's the version with the folding knife, tiny spoon & fork, corkscrew and odd can opener. I gave that kit away as it was just too small. I prefer the German kit as it's big and durable. And yes, I do use these most everyday at work (except the can opener) because I hate plastic flatware and these fit well in my EDC (everyday carry) bag.

Firestar wrote:Housil,
So it's more of a "stab-push-lever-stab-push-lever" action instead of the P38 using the "twist-move-twist-move" action? I will try this way when the wife is out of the kitchen

You just have to stab it once but you are right, now it´s push-lever...
I like the kit also and always use it in "the fields". But the can opener is "tricky" and I always prefer the US P-38 (except to open a T-18 tray)

I too wondered about how that opener was correctly used but was afraid to ask thinking i was the only dummy who coulden't figure it out myself!!! Thanks guys for clearing it up!!!!!
Best, rich

Don´t worry - nobody is a dummy

thanks Housil...you're too kind!!!