Tag Archives: can opener

Adapting “The Greatest Army Invention Ever” for Home Use

I recently discovered the P-38 can opener (sometimes called the John Wayne). Issued by the US Military for over 40 years, it was never known to break, rust, or need sharpening. It’s now found in many prepper’s survival kits.

What’s most interesting, is despite it’s sterling reputation, it went from conception to manufacturing in a total of 30 days in 1942. They were intended to be disposable.

In the video I make my own DIY P-38/P-51 can opener and add an oak handle for leverage. Yes, I know they made millions of them and are available for less than a dollar.