I still have not figured out how to sharpen a knife with one.

The only way I can think of is with the p-38 blade closed, you run the blade along the v of the blade and handle similar to the smith knife sharpener.

I've never had a problem using my SAK to open cans...though I've never used a P-38 so I can't compare.

I agree with you Hacksaw,

Today my 10 year old daughter decided that she was old enough to have her own pocket knife; so after the standard lesson/lecture on knife use/responsibility she received a small SAK (Recruit model). She of course wanted to use it ASAP but I was cooking dinner (stir-fried venison/onions/mushrooms over potatoes) so the first thing she did with her new knife was open a can of mushrooms. The can did not have a very big rim so I had to help her, but the little SAK can-opener did the job just fine.

I also EDC a folding can-opener (it is the Coghlins version of the P-38) in my wallet. The difficulty is that whenever I use it in front of people someone always thinks its neat and I end up giving it away (they are only 50 cents to replace). I have done a few odd things with the can-opener (turn a screw, open a package) but I EDC a Leatherman so I usually reach for it.

Having never handled any folding can-opener other than the Coghlins model, what is the difference between it and the military models?

Thanks,

Mike

Cannot tell you the difference between the Coglins or a military model, but I already know you are better than I am at using the can opener or your SAKs. My attempts at lid removal is about the same skill level as buthering via 4WD, a big mess.

If you want to have enough to give them away at will, you could buy 100 P-38s for about $20, or 100 P-51s for about $30. See: http://www.sportsmansguide.com/net/cb/cb.aspx?a=372726.

Actually I find myself opening can and beer/wine bottles with my SAK more frequently than with specialized tools just because I have it on me all the time and the difference in utility isn't worse 10 steps to the kitchen.

You even can open it with an axe, it just takes some additional time.

The airports and other anti-tool areas make sense though...

The P 38, or John Wayne is also a fine weapon. I arrested 5 japanese fish pirates off of Alaska armed solely with mine.

I would have loved to have been there to see that.

but seriously where else can you buy them. There are no army/navy stores anywhere near where i am. I have no way of buying em online either. So where would i get one?

You can usually get a generic at the Coghlans wall at Wallyworld type stores. Not the real thing, but close...

well the only reason i carry it, is because it's a better can opener and allows me to make better soda can stoves with. The SAK for everything else.

The difference between the coughlans and the original P-51 are the two lines that are pressed in to the metal. This gives the metal more stiffness. So you won't bent it as easily.

I got those, at Canadian Tire, in the "Coghlan's aisle". They have the P-51 design, the larger. They get the job done. They are the cheapest multitools available.