Customer Reviews

Kuhn Rikon Auto Safety Lid Lifter, Blue

5 star:		(16)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(1)
1 star:		(1)

 

 

I previously owned the compact scissor action model, which worked splendidly. I tried this version out of curiosity, and now I prefer it over the other types. Since it is difficult to tell from the pictures, I will try to summarize the difference:

The other models by this manufacturer clamp on in the typical fashion. That is by opening the split handles, like a pair of scissors or pliers, and manually clamping the cutting mechanism to the rim of the can. They differ from convention in that they are an outer edge cutter, with the blade, wheel, and knob all operating in the horizontal plane rather than vertical. This arrangement splits the can seam around the outside edge, so no more lid cave-in, and no more mess. The can opener stays clean! Once split, there is a little set of pliers that one uses to grab the edge of the can and lever the top up.

Now the auto version is a bit different. No more split handles. The cutter is clamped against the wheel by turning the main butterfly knob (sorry, I can't think of a better name) about a half turn. To un-clamp, turn it backward a half turn. Since there are no plier handles, there is a small button that actuates the little plier beak. I was skeptical about this feature, but it works just fine.

The one thing that I would request as an enhancement deals with the main knob. I think a crank would be easier and faster for me. However, it is a great tool design and I have on complaints.

gerG

I had high hopes for this can opener due to the reviews I'd read but, as it turns out, the people who are happy with this opener are happy because it is a smooth-edge opener and using it doesn't result in a dangerous and jagged can lid. Although it does that job, I would downgrade it as far as usability is concerned. It requires some awkward moves: (a) you have to start by placing the knob at a certain angle (10:00) before starting (required because there is only one handle and no other way for it to grip the can edge), (b) the placement of the knob requires that you twist it clockwise horizontally while it is on top of the can (imagine placing your hand palm down flat on a table, then twisting a knob with your fingers while keeping your palm in that position, and (d) finally, when the lid has been gone around once you turn the gadget sideways and press a little white button to operate the built-in pincers to grasp the can lid.

I also have an old (at least 7 year old) Oxo Good Grips Smooth-edge can opener which I thought had gone bad on me but the problem turned out to be me(!)-- somehow I had developed some bad habits while using it. I have since corrected myself after analyzing my actions. The Oxo is easier to hold (rubbery grip rather than hard plastic) and has two handles which are gripped together in order to grasp the can edge. The fat grippy knob is easier to turn because your hand is at more of a handshake angle rather than palm-down. And the pincers are operated by the same scissors-type handles, which is an instinctive action, rather than by pressing a little button.

Neither the Kuhn Rikon nor the Oxo is suitable for a left-handed person. Now that I'm happy with my old Oxo again, I'm going to donate the Kuhn Rikon to Goodwill.

This bright, cheerful colour makes Kuhn Rikon's Auto Safety Lid Lifter easy to find.

The instructions are very clear and it works smoothly, quietly, and surprisingly quickly when you follow them. (I was concerned about whether slivers of metal might fall into food but, according to the instructions, that won't happen if you stop the rotation where you started. If you have difficulty feeling it, even though it's quite pronounced, I suggest noticing your starting point on the can label and stopping when you reach that point again.)

The handle and turn key are perfectly sized for mildly to moderately arthritic hands with some diminished strength. (People with very severe hand problems may still do best with an electric.)

The absence of sharp edges and ease of clean up are wonderful safety features.

Manufacturing quality is excellent. With proper care, it looks like this can opener may last a good long time.

This tool has not only met, but exceeded my expectations. I can't imagine wanting to use any other can opener after enjoying this one!

We bought a new house, so I decided we weren't going to pack the old manual can opener. While it had served me well for more years than I want to admit and still performed well, I figured this was a perfect opportunity to find a replacement. I went searching on Amazon and found this one.

This can opener, unlike other manual openers cuts the can on the side instead of from the top. This not only prevents accidental cuts, but allows one to use the top as a lid for cleaning out the can before recycling. Additionally shavings or dirt won't fall into the food.

Opening from the side means this opener works a little different from top cutters. The knob is used to lock the opener onto the can's lip. Turn until the slight resistance has stopped indicating a complete revolution, then unlock and use the lid lifter to remove the lid.

Even though this opener opens from the top, it is simple to use and safer. Additionally it is sturdy and feels good in the hand. I suspect this replacement will serve me well for more years that I want to admit. If you are in the market for a new manual can opener, this is the one to get.

PROS:
Available in Red, Blue, Black, and White
Simple to use
Quality construction
Safer than the traditional manual can openers

CONS:
May lead more people to store food in the can; this is not an advisable practice even with the top as a lid.

I just received this item today.
I tried it out immediately.
It is easier to use than some have described.
If one listens, there is a tiny "click" when the tin snaps.
The snap signifies stop! The cutting has gone full circle.
The lid lifts out easily with the wee pliers.
There is no chance of cutting oneself because
a raised, protective rim is created along the top
as one cuts. The hip color choices are fun.
Plus: No more germs incubating on the cutting instrument!
THAT'S the best bonus for this clever and cute tool!

Most of us are familiar with the classic can opener that's easy to use but leaves jagged edges and often drops the lid right in to the can. Kuhn Rikon's Auto Safety Lid Lifter not only leaves you with a smooth edge around the lid, but allows you to remove the lid and dispose it without thouching the can. Pretty cool. It's comfortable in my hands, looks good out on the counter, and feels solid... I plan on using this one for years to come.

Purchased this opener in 12/11 as christmas gift for someone.
It was very reasonably priced and is really very well designed and manufactured to a very high standard. You don't have to squeeze it or anything, just place and start turning and there is no serrated gear to wear out like other openers. If kept clean and used properly I wouldn't be surprised if its the last opener I'll ever buy! Kool colors too!

I can now finally open a can without being harassed by the cat. It doesn't make the normal can opener noise so you can open as many cans as without arousing the interest of furry friends.

I had the Old fashioned turn the handle kind, and after a few years they don't work as good. So my husband tried this, and really liked it. So far I think it's great, and I don't have to worry about touching the lid and it's sharp edges. Love the Blue.

Actually it took me a bit to figure out how to use it. I even went on-line to see a demo video. My sister reminded me to just follow the picture and directions on the package and 1-2-3, I got it and love it. I love not having to worry about getting cut on the cans. Everyone who uses a can opener should get one.