Can Opener - Appalachian Trail

imported
#1

Does it make sense to carry a can opener when hiking along the AT? I wasn’t sure if most re-supply points (gas stations, grocery stores, etc) stocked cans with the peel top lids, thus making it unncessary to carry one.

Thanks.

Guru

#2

Guru:Check out the old P-38 which used to come with G.I. rations.It’s still around,check for it on line.Not even an oz.Never know when you’ll find a can in a shelter that needs a can opener.:cheers

old&intheway

#3

It’s the only way to go. Or a P-52. It is the tinyest fraction larger. The best of the best in Army Surplus.

Spider

#4

yeah, the tiny ‘GI’ army surplus can opener works for the occasional can… if you like imported beers, you may want to take a tiny bottle opener too… although, strong booze makes a nice nightcap, ganga being illegal & all.

gingerbreadman

#5

Thanks for the info on the P-38 & 52. My question was more about the necessity of a can opener on the AT. Are the peel top cans mostly available in gas stations and grocery stores?

Thanks.

Guru

#6

Only about 30% of the cans are poptop or none at all at smaller grocers and mom and pop stores—generally speaking.
I buy and carry canned food sometimes and a can opener is a good idea. For example, I wanted a big can of bush’s baked beans for dinner and all of the cans were NOT pop top-i had to opt for the beanie-weanies b/c i left my p-38 at home. oh well.

LIIT

#7

The P-38 only wieghs a couple grams and takes up virtually no space, take it with you and then if you need it you got it. Then you can open that can of tuna when no pouch is available.

4Bears

#8

My Swiss Army Knife has a can opener on it. It also has a leather punch and a couple of knives. All come in handy and I use it so much I don’t mind carrying the extra ounce or two. If you want, you can break off the extra knife. That might be hard to do, however.

Bartman