These styles of can-openers were originally issued around WWII for soldiers to open their C-rations. While their popularity wavered when MREs came into production, their use now varies and makes these can openers into multi-purpose survival and field tools.

How to open a can with the P-38 or P-51:

1. Open the blade flap.
2. Place the opener at the lip of the can, vertically. Make sure the blade is pointing down at the can.
3. Twist down to puncture a slot. Using your thumb pressure, make a small bite into the can.
4. You can advance the opener with a rocking motion. Just rock away from the original bite until you have enough flexibility to open.

Always sterilize before reuse.