Opening an ice cold beer is a great way to unwind at the end of a tiring day or to liven up a party. However, if you don't have a bottle opener, it can be hard to get it right! Fortunately, the keys you keep in your pocket or purse are a simple solution to your problem. Whether you want to pop the cork directly or remove it little by little, it's easy to open a bottle with a key!
Steps
Method 1 of 2: Pop the Cap
Step 1. Squeeze the neck of the bottle with your non-dominant hand
You should hold it firmly so it doesn't slip as you push against the cap. Don't worry about tightening too much, a firm grip is enough!
Step 2. Put a sturdy key, such as a car key, under the cap
You cannot use a small filing cabinet key or an aluminum key for this method. Choose a large and durable one, like the one in the car or the office. One with more grooves in the tip is better, as it will be easier to fit under the cap.
Step 3. Turn the key up until you hear the cap pop
Hold it with your dominant hand and turn it towards you. It is the same movement as when you start the car. Since the key is tucked under the cap, you should pry it off!
Step 4. Try a different side of the cap if it hasn't blown off
Depending on the cap, key material and your experience with the method, you may not be able to open the bottle on the first try. In this case, turn it around and try again with another section of the cap!
Method 2 of 2: Pry out the serrations
Step 1. Look for bent indentations
If there are any spots in the cap that are already slightly bent, start there! If not, you can start wherever you want.
Step 2. Slide the tip of the key under a notch
Move it as far as you can and don't worry if you can't get to the bottom, just leverage a little.
Step 3. Turn the key until the indentation folds up
Twist it from side to side gently but firmly until the cap begins to warp. Be careful not to press the indentation against the bottle; when you are done it should be facing outwards or upwards.
Step 4. Repeat until at least four consecutive indentations are raised
Keep turning the key under the cap until you have four prongs bent. Make sure they are all close together; the method will not work if the indentations are scattered throughout the cap.
Step 5. Squeeze the bottle tightly with your non-dominant hand
Keep it tight enough not to hurt yourself or other close people. However, don't over tighten, you may be strong enough to break it!
Step 6. Push the tip of the key under the bent indentations
Try to fit it in as much as possible, but don't worry if it doesn't fit that much. You just need enough space to pry the key.
Step 7. Push the key up until the cap pops out
Grip it firmly with your dominant hand and push the cap up to open the bottle. Be careful not to push too hard, otherwise you could crack the glass!
Advice
- Pay attention to the indentations, they can be very sharp!
- Check if the bottle cap opens by unscrewing before using a wrench!
- If you often find yourself without a bottle opener, consider buying a keychain that can open bottles!
