13 Tricks to Opening a Beer Without a Bottle Opener

When you really want a crisp, cold beer but don't have a bottle opener handy, you might think you're totally out of luck, destined to just drool over that ice-cold, water-beaded bottle. But we've got good news. Like the many hacks that have uncorked countless wine bottles sans corkscrew, there are plenty of tricks to popping off a beer's metal cap when you're without a bottle opener. All you need is a little leverage.

1. Keys

Use your dominant hand to slide the long side of your key under the cap, then twist the key upward to loosen the cap. You might have to turn the bottle a bit and repeat until it finally comes clean off.

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2. Another beer

We've seen this more times than we can count. And though it seems like an old wive's tale, it actually does work. It just takes a little finessing: Flip one bottle upside down and use the ridge of its cap to pull of the cap of another​, holding them strong and steady.

[youtube ]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4aYXP9UNXCo" frameborder="0" allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen="">​

3. Metal spoon or fork

Just slip the edge of a spoon of single fork prong under the cap and lift until the bottle opens. Alternatively, you could just use the handle to pry it off.

[youtube ]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7PP91dc2xW0" frameborder="0" allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen="">​

4. Scissors

There are actually two tactics here. The first is opening them and placing the cap between the two blades, lifting until it pops off. The second is cutting through each ridge in the crown until it releases.

5. Lighter

Hold the bottle by the top of its neck, leaving just enough space for the lighter to fit between your index finger and the bottom of the cap. Now push down on the other end of the lighter with your free hand until the cap flies off.

[youtube ]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yv6cse3QXw4" frameborder="0" allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen="">​

6. Lipstick

See instructions for using a lighter. Honestly any weighty, stick-like object will do here.

7. Door frame

You've gotta tilt the bottle a bit on its side to make this one work: Line up the edge of the cap with the lip of the door or empty lock latch, then apply pressure at an angle and the cap should pop off.

[youtube ]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mf2KD7KCfpc" frameborder="0" allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen="">​

8. Screwdriver

Slip the edge of a flathead under the edge of the cap and use the rest as a lever to lift it off.

9. Dollar bill

This trick is a little harder to believe, but it really does work. By folding the bill (or even a piece of paper) enough times, it becomes sturdy enough to pop off a bottle cap. 

[youtube ]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=00DWLkVLbd4" frameborder="0" allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen="">​

10. Tree branch

If you can find one with a curve or knob, you're in luck. Just maneuver the bottle until the cap catches and tilt slowly but forcefully until it comes loose. (Skip to 0:13 in the video.)

[youtube ]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mNrtarCN6S8&feature=youtu.be" frameborder="0" allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen="">​

11. Countertop

Or brick. Or any other surface with a defined edge. Place the lip of the counter under the cap and whack the cap with your hand or hard object in a downward motion so that it lifts off. 

[youtube ]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g4YcW3nbuMo&feature=youtu.be" frameborder="0" allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen="">​

12. Ring

Place your hand over the bottle and put the underside of your ring finger under the cap. Tilt the bottle to about 45 degrees, then grip the top and pull back. It might be best to stick to sturdy, titanium or gold bands for this one, though. Because who wants to bend a delicate silver ring out of shape for the sake of chugging a brewski? Oh right, all of us.

[youtube ]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xSQWi8nVYAA" frameborder="0" allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen="">​

13. Belt buckle

This requires you to take your belt off, but booze is totally worth the extra step. Place one edge of the buckle under the cap and use your thumb to push down on the other side of the cap.

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