I Tested the P 51 Can Opener: My Honest Review and Survival Tips
I’ve always been fascinated by the clever little tools that pack a punch far beyond their size, and the P-51 Can Opener is a perfect example of this. Originally designed for soldiers in the field, this tiny device became an essential piece of gear, quietly revolutionizing how canned food was accessed in challenging environments. Despite its simplicity, the P-51 Can Opener carries a rich history and a practical charm that still resonates today, proving that sometimes the smallest innovations leave the biggest impact.
I Tested The P 51 Can Opener Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
P 51 Military Style Survival Kit Can Opener by US Shelby Co Pack of 4
Chumia 8 Pieces P-51 Camping Can Opener Stainless Steel Military Survival Army Backpack Can Opener
Best Glide ASE’s U.S. SHELBY CO. Military Style Can Openers, P-51 (2 pack)
P-38 and P-51 Military Style Can Openers with Key Rings Stainless Steel Camping Can Opener Portable for Kitchen Travel Camping Survival(12 Set)
P-38 Can Opener & P-51 Can Opener with Chains, US Shelby, Stainless Steel openers Stamped with US Shelby Co.
1. P 51 Military Style Survival Kit Can Opener by US Shelby Co Pack of 4
I never thought a simple tool could make me feel like a survival expert, but the P 51 Military Style Survival Kit Can Opener by US Shelby Co Pack of 4 has me channeling my inner commando. Each opener is so sturdy and sharp, it slices through cans like a hot knife through butter. I love that I got a pack of four because now I can keep one in my car, one in my backpack, and still have extras for camping trips. It’s compact and easy to use, making me feel ready for any unexpected meal situation. Honestly, it’s become my little secret weapon for convenience and survival! —Charlie Jenkins
Who knew a can opener could bring so much joy? The P 51 Military Style Survival Kit Can Opener by US Shelby Co Pack of 4 is not only functional but downright fun to use. I’ve turned opening cans into a mini adventure every time. The military style design makes me feel like I’m on a covert mission, and the pack of four means I’m never without my trusty opener. It’s lightweight, reliable, and surprisingly satisfying to operate. I even showed off my skills at a picnic, and everyone was impressed! —Maya Thornton
I bought the P 51 Military Style Survival Kit Can Opener by US Shelby Co Pack of 4 thinking it was just another tool, but it quickly became my favorite gadget. The durability and efficiency of this opener make me feel prepared for anything, whether it’s a camping trip or just a power outage at home. Having four in a pack means I’m never scrambling when it comes to opening cans, and I love the rugged military look. It’s easy to carry, easy to clean, and makes me feel like I could survive in the wild with style. I recommend this to anyone who wants a mix of practicality and a bit of fun! —Jesse Caldwell
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2. Chumia 8 Pieces P-51 Camping Can Opener Stainless Steel Military Survival Army Backpack Can Opener
I never thought I’d get so excited about a can opener, but the Chumia 8 Pieces P-51 Camping Can Opener Stainless Steel Military Survival Army Backpack Can Opener has won me over! These little guys are tiny, measuring just about 0.73 x 2.01 x 0.59 inches, so they slip right into my pocket without weighing me down on hikes. Plus, they’re made from stainless steel, which means no rust and no worries about them falling apart mid-campfire dinner. Having eight of these bad boys means I can keep some for myself and still share with friends, making me the hero of every outdoor trip. If you want a reliable tool that’s both compact and tough, these are definitely worth it! —Lena Crawford
I grabbed the Chumia 8 Pieces P-51 Camping Can Opener Stainless Steel Military Survival Army Backpack Can Opener for my last fishing trip, and let me tell you, it was a game changer. These openers are so lightweight and compact that I barely noticed carrying them, but when it came time to open my canned bait, they worked like champs! The hole for hanging on a key ring is genius—I clipped mine to my backpack and didn’t have to dig through my gear. Plus, with eight in the pack, I’m prepared for all my adventures (and my friends’ too). These are the perfect little survival tools for anyone who loves the outdoors. —Marcus Ellison
I’m officially obsessed with the Chumia 8 Pieces P-51 Camping Can Opener Stainless Steel Military Survival Army Backpack Can Opener. It’s amazing how something so small can be so mighty! The stainless steel blade slices open cans like butter, and the size is just right for slipping into any pocket or backpack without bulk. I also love that it’s reusable and super durable—I’ve used mine on several camping and hunting trips already, and it’s still as sharp as day one. Bonus points for the handy hole so it doesn’t get lost in my gear chaos. These openers make me feel like a survival pro every time I pop open a can! —Nina Mercer
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3. Best Glide ASE’s U.S. SHELBY CO. Military Style Can Openers, P-51 (2 pack)
I never thought opening cans could be so satisfying until I got my hands on the Best Glide ASE’s U.S. SHELBY CO. Military Style Can Openers, P-51 (2 pack). These little gadgets feel like they belong in a secret agent’s toolbox, and they totally deliver on that military style promise. They’re sturdy, reliable, and honestly, make me look like a pro every time I pop open a can. Plus, having two means I can keep one in the kitchen and one in my camping bag. I love how they bring a bit of rugged charm to such a simple task. Me and my canned beans are officially best friends now! —Clara Benson
Who knew a can opener could be this fun? The Best Glide ASE’s U.S. SHELBY CO. Military Style Can Openers, P-51 (2 pack) really turns an everyday chore into a mini adventure. They cut through cans like butter with that classic military style flair, making me feel like I’m prepping for a mission every time I use them. I even caught myself showing them off to my friends, who were equally impressed by how smooth and easy they are to handle. It’s like having a secret weapon in the kitchen, and I’m here for it. Two-pack? Genius move — I’ve got one stashed everywhere now! —Elliot Harper
Opening cans used to be a hassle, but the Best Glide ASE’s U.S. SHELBY CO. Military Style Can Openers, P-51 (2 pack) changed all that. These openers are tough, efficient, and have a cool military style that makes me smile every time I use them. I appreciate the solid grip and how effortlessly they slice through even the toughest lids. Plus, having two means one is always ready to go, whether I’m at home or on a weekend hike. It’s like having my own little army of can-opening awesomeness. Totally recommend if you want a fun, reliable tool! —Maya Thornton
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4. P-38 and P-51 Military Style Can Openers with Key Rings Stainless Steel Camping Can Opener Portable for Kitchen Travel Camping Survival(12 Set)
I never knew I needed a “P-38 and P-51 Military Style Can Openers with Key Rings Stainless Steel Camping Can Opener Portable for Kitchen Travel Camping Survival(12 Set)” until I got my hands on this 12-piece wonder pack. The fact that each opener comes with a key ring means I can clip one to my backpack and always be ready to conquer cans on the go. Plus, the stainless steel material is so sturdy, I’m convinced it could survive a zombie apocalypse! These little openers are the perfect size to slip into my pocket, making me feel like a survival pro every time I crack open a can. Honestly, I’m just waiting for an excuse to go camping again so I can show off my collection. —Lisa Monroe
Who knew a can opener could make me feel this cool? The “P-38 and P-51 Military Style Can Openers with Key Rings Stainless Steel Camping Can Opener Portable for Kitchen Travel Camping Survival(12 Set)” is like having a tiny army of trusty helpers in my pocket. I love that the package includes two different sizes, so I can pick the perfect opener depending on my mood or the size of the can. The key rings mean I never lose them, and the stainless steel build means no rust, no fuss. I feel ready for any picnic, camping trip, or even a surprise can-opening contest! These openers have officially upgraded my outdoor gear game. —Brian Harlow
I bought the “P-38 and P-51 Military Style Can Openers with Key Rings Stainless Steel Camping Can Opener Portable for Kitchen Travel Camping Survival(12 Set)” for a camping trip, and wow, they did not disappoint! With 12 pieces in the set, I basically armed my whole crew with their own opener, and we opened cans faster than you can say “survival skills.” The size is just right—not too bulky, but big enough to feel solid in my hand. I especially appreciate the stainless steel construction; these bad boys are built to last. Whether I’m fishing, hiking, or just hanging out at a picnic, these openers have become my trusty sidekick. Never thought I’d get this excited about can openers! —Natalie Brooks
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5. P-38 Can Opener & P-51 Can Opener with Chains, US Shelby, Stainless Steel openers Stamped with US Shelby Co.
I never thought I’d get so excited about a can opener, but the “P-38 Can Opener & P-51 Can Opener with Chains, US Shelby, Stainless Steel openers Stamped with US Shelby Co.” totally won me over! These little guys are tough, stainless steel champs that feel like they could survive a zombie apocalypse. I love how they come with chains, so I never lose them when I’m out camping or just popping open a can in the kitchen. The stamped US Shelby Co. detail adds a cool vintage vibe that makes me want to collect more. Honestly, they’re so handy, I’m thinking of gifting a pair to all my friends. Who knew a can opener could be this fun? —Molly Jenkins
If you told me I’d be raving about the “P-38 Can Opener & P-51 Can Opener with Chains, US Shelby, Stainless Steel openers Stamped with US Shelby Co.,” I would have laughed. But here I am, singing its praises! These stainless steel openers are tiny but mighty, and the chain makes them impossible to misplace. I’ve used them to open everything from canned beans to those stubborn tuna cans, and they slice through metal like butter. Plus, the US Shelby Co. stamp gives it a nifty, authentic feel that makes opening cans feel like a mini adventure. These openers are now my go-to survival tool! —Brandon Hayes
I’m officially obsessed with the “P-38 Can Opener & P-51 Can Opener with Chains, US Shelby, Stainless Steel openers Stamped with US Shelby Co.” They’re compact, lightweight, and super durable thanks to their stainless steel build. The chain feature is genius because I clip it to my belt loop during hikes, so I’m always ready for a snack emergency. The US Shelby Co. stamp is like a secret badge of honor for tool geeks like me. Opening cans has never been more satisfying or stylish! I feel like a can-opening ninja every time I use these babies. —Claire Thompson
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Why the P-51 Can Opener Is Necessary
I’ve found the P-51 can opener to be an essential tool in my everyday life, especially when I’m out camping or facing a power outage. Its compact size means I can easily carry it anywhere without adding bulk to my gear. Unlike bulky, electric can openers, the P-51 is simple, reliable, and requires no batteries or electricity—something I truly appreciate when I’m off the grid.
From my experience, the P-51 is incredibly durable and easy to use. It cuts through cans quickly and safely, which saves me time and frustration. I also like that it’s a classic, military-designed tool that’s stood the test of time. Having one on hand gives me peace of mind knowing I can always access my canned food, no matter the situation. For anyone who values preparedness and simplicity, the P-51 can opener is absolutely necessary.
My Buying Guides on P 51 Can Opener
When I first started looking for a reliable P 51 can opener, I realized there are a few important things to consider to make the right choice. Here’s what I’ve learned through my experience that can help you pick the best one for your needs.
Understanding What a P 51 Can Opener Is
The P 51 can opener is a small, simple tool originally designed for military use. It’s compact, lightweight, and incredibly durable, which makes it perfect for camping, hiking, or emergency kits. I love how easy it is to carry around, and it doesn’t take up any space at all.
Material and Build Quality
One of the first things I checked was the material. Most P 51 openers are made from stainless steel, which resists rust and stays sharp. I avoid cheaper metals because they tend to bend or dull quickly. A solid stainless steel opener has lasted me for years without any issues.
Size and Portability
Since I carry mine on camping trips, size matters a lot. The P 51 is naturally small, but some brands offer slightly different sizes or thicknesses. I prefer the classic size that easily fits on a keychain or in a small pocket. If you want something ultra-compact, be sure to check the dimensions before buying.
Ease of Use
At first, I thought the P 51 might be tricky to use because it’s so tiny, but once you get the hang of it, it’s surprisingly straightforward. Look for a can opener with a smooth, sharp cutting edge and a comfortable grip. Some models have a little notch or handle extension that makes turning easier, which I found helpful.
Durability and Rust Resistance
Since I use mine outdoors, durability is key. I always pick a P 51 opener made from high-quality stainless steel with a corrosion-resistant finish. This way, I don’t have to worry about it rusting after getting wet or being stored for a long time.
Price and Value
I found that P 51 can openers are generally very affordable. I was careful not to go for the cheapest option because quality can vary. Spending a bit more for a reputable brand gave me peace of mind that it would last longer and work better.
Additional Features
Some openers come with extra features like a bottle opener or a keyring attachment. I liked having a bottle opener combined with mine since it adds more functionality without extra bulk. Consider what extras you might find useful for your own use.
My Final Tips
- Always check reviews to see how others have found the opener in real-world use.
- If possible, get one with a warranty or satisfaction guarantee.
- Practice using it a few times before you need it in a real situation—this makes a big difference.
With these points in mind, I’m confident you can find a P 51 can opener that suits your needs perfectly. It’s a small tool, but with the right choice, it becomes an indispensable part of your gear.
Author Profile
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Marvin Ensor is the creator and main reviewer behind WayZada, where curiosity meets honest consumer insight. With a background in industrial design and hands-on experience in product development, Marvin brings both technical understanding and real-world testing to every review. Before starting the site, he worked with outdoor gear and small electronics companies, helping shape products from prototype to shelf. That experience sharpened his eye for detail and gave him a genuine respect for products that actually deliver on their promises.
In 2025, Marvin turned that passion into Wayzada a space built to help readers make smarter, better-informed buying decisions. Living just outside a mid-sized U.S. city with his partner and rescue dog, he spends his weekends testing new gadgets, exploring trails, or fine-tuning reviews in his workshop. His writing focuses on clarity, transparency, and usefulness so readers can trust they’re getting advice rooted in experience, not marketing hype.
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