What tools were often required to open the early tin cans patented by Peter Durand?

Answer

A hammer and chisel

Although Peter Durand's patent of tin-plated iron containers in 1810 solved the critical problem of breakage and weight associated with glass bottles, the early realization of the tin can was far from convenient for the end-user. These initial metal containers were manufactured crudely, resulting in seals that were incredibly thick and robust, designed to withstand intense internal pressure and external damage during transport. Consequently, accessing the preserved food was a strenuous task. Users often needed significant force and specific implements, typically requiring the use of a hammer and a chisel to physically breach the container's seal before the contents could be accessed.

What tools were often required to open the early tin cans patented by Peter Durand?
foodinventionHistorypreservationtechnique