Unlocking the Hidden Power of Your Kitchen Scissors

Ever noticed the jagged section between the handles of your kitchen scissors—the little metal teeth tucked behind your fingers? Most people glance at it and think, What even is this? If you’ve never used it, you’re not alone. Many ignore it entirely, assuming it’s just decoration.

But here’s the secret: it’s actually a powerful tool. Not a random design quirk. That tiny ridged section is a built-in gripper you’ve likely been overlooking. Let’s break down what it is, how to use it, and why it deserves a spot in your kitchen toolkit.

What Is That Toothed Part?

You’ll find it near the handles’ curve—sometimes metal, sometimes reinforced plastic. Close the scissors slowly, and the ridges lock together, forming a strong gripping surface.

Brands call it different things: “jar opener,” “nutcracker,” or even “bone cracker.” Essentially, it boosts traction and control whenever your hands aren’t enough.

Trick #1: Open Jars Without the Struggle

Got a stubborn jar lid? Forget towels and counter hits. The built-in gripper can handle it.

How to use it:

1. Close the scissors so the teeth touch.

2. Slide the jar lid into the ridged section snugly.

3. Hold the scissors with one hand, twist the jar with the other.

The grooves add traction and evenly distribute pressure, saving your wrists. Works on small bottle caps too—soda, sauces, or tonic water. Perfect for limited grip strength or arthritis.

Trick #2: Crack Nuts Without a Nutcracker

No nutcracker? No problem. Your scissors can do the job.

1. Place the nut in the toothed section.

2. Squeeze slowly until the shell cracks—avoid crushing the nut inside.

3. Rotate and repeat until the shell peels off.

It’s not perfect, but it works in a pinch. Take it slow.

Trick #3: Tackle Poultry Bones

If your scissors are heavy-duty—poultry or bone shears—they can help snap small bones like chicken wings or thighs.

• Grip the bone in the ridged section.

• Apply steady, controlled pressure.

Warning: Don’t try this with cheap kitchen scissors—they may break and injure you.

Bonus Uses You Might Not Expect

That toothed area isn’t limited to jars or nuts. Try it for:

• Gripping slippery plastic caps (like juice jugs)

• Cracking crab legs or lobster shells

• Twisting soft corks from synthetic bottles

• Holding stubborn twist-ties or plastic seals

Basically, whenever your hands slip and frustration rises, that little gripper comes to the rescue.

Why Do Scissors Include This Feature?

Manufacturers want versatility. Instead of separate tools for jars, nuts, and poultry, a single pair of scissors with a gripper can handle all three. It’s a space-saving multi-tool for small kitchens.

Where you’ll find it:

• Heavy-duty kitchen scissors

• Poultry or bone shears

• Utility or multipurpose scissors

Check between the handles—if there’s a notched or ridged section that aligns when closed, your built-in gripper is ready.

Safety Tips

• Don’t force it. Tough nuts or thick bones can break your scissors.

• Keep fingers away from the teeth while twisting or pressing.

• Clean thoroughly, especially after raw meat or sticky foods.

• Avoid non-food uses—no paint cans or wires.

The Toothed Part: A Hidden Power Move

At first glance, it looks like a goofy notch. But it’s quietly capable. That toothed section turns ordinary scissors into a multi-tool: a jar opener, nutcracker, mini bone press, and more—all in one.

Next time you grab your kitchen scissors, remember: there’s more to them than cutting. That little toothed gripper is ready to solve problems—and you just have to use it.