On Thu, 21 Aug 2014 16:28:32 -0400, James Silverton
> wrote:

>On 8/21/2014 3:33 PM, Janet Bostwick wrote:
>> On Thu, 21 Aug 2014 11:53:17 -0400, James Silverton
>> > wrote:
>>
>>> On 8/21/2014 9:50 AM, graham wrote:
>>>> On 21/08/2014 7:06 AM, wrote:
>>>>> On Thu, 21 Aug 2014 07:58:28 +0100, Peter Percival
>>>>> > wrote:
>>>>>
>>>>>> My can openers of this kind:
>>>>>>
>>>>>> http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tin_ope..._wheel_openers
>>>>>>
>>>>>> stop working after a while.
>>>>>>
>>>>>> My mum had a stab-and-lever type:
>>>>>>
>>>>>> http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tin_ope...pe_can_openers,
>>>>>>
>>>>>> and, in particular, one like this:
>>>>>>
>>>>>> http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tin_ope...tesOpener3.jpg.
>>>>>>
>>>>>>
>>>>>> And I would like to buy one. If anyone can recommend a particular make
>>>>>> and model I shall be most grateful. Buy-able by mail order would be
>>>>>> most convenient.
>>>>>
>>>>> I have had one like this, for so long I can't remember how long.
>>>>>
>>>>> http://www.oxo.com/p-404-snap-lock-can-opener.aspx
>>>>>
>>>> Get the side-opener type. They cut sideways through the ridge at the top
>>>> of the can so that you don't get any sharp edges.
>>>> Graham
>>>
>>> I've got an OXO side cutter too and have used it for at least two years.
>>> It does a good job on many differently shaped cans and its one defect is
>>> that it is not always easy to position for starting the cut.
>>
>> Mine came with the instruction that the lever should be pointing to 5
>> to 12 when you place it on the can. Then begin turning. I have found
>> that to work every time.
>> Janet US
>>
>I'm not sure that I get the "5 to 12" but I'll try to figure it out next
>time I use the opener. Thanks.

If the lever were aligned straight up with the handle, it would be 12
o'clock. 5 minutes to 12, the lever is canted slightly to the left.
On my can opener, in this position, when I place the mechanism head on
the can, I can feel that wheels? or something is snugged against the
edge of the can. When I begin to turn the lever, this is confirmed by
tightening up against the can.
Janet US