This 1.5-inch tool was designed to open C-Rations during WWII. The “P” may stand for puncture and “38” for the number of cuts it took to go around the can. The hole in the P-38 was used to dip it in boiling water to sterilize after use. Many consider it the most perfect tool ever designed for combat.
What is AP 51 can opener?
The P-51 is the larger version of the P-38 and was often used by mess hall cooks to open the big trays and large cans of chow. The P-51 is a full 2" long. Some prefer them over the P-38s because a P-51 will open cans much easier and faster and will last much longer than the P-38.
What is John Wayne's can opener?
P-38
How did P-38 can opener get its name?
The P-38 acquired its infamous nomenclature from the 38 punctures around the C-ration can required for opening and the boast that it performed with the speed of the World War II P-38 fighter plane. Six years later millions of the miniature can openers were distributed by the Army during the Korean War.11 Aug 2009
What does the P in P-38 stand for?
One is that soldiers called it the P-38 because it could open a can faster than the P-38 Lightning fighter plane could fly. A more likely explanation is that the “38” comes from the length of the can opener, which is 38 millimeters (or 1 1/2 inches).8 Jan 2012
Why is it called a P-51 can opener?
This 1.5-inch tool was designed to open C-Rations during WWII. The “P” may stand for puncture and “38” for the number of cuts it took to go around the can. The hole in the P-38 was used to dip it in boiling water to sterilize after use.
Who made the P-38 can opener?
Major Thomas Dennehy
Do they still make P-38?
The P-38, developed in 1942, is a small can opener that was issued in the canned field rations of the United States Armed Forces from World War II to the 1980s. Originally designed for and distributed in the K-ration, it was later included in the C-ration. As of 2020, it is still in production and sold worldwide.