2. Crack Nuts Without a Nutcracker
No nutcracker? No problem! Use the serrated section as a makeshift nutcracker:
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Place the nut in the toothed grip.
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Gently squeeze until the shell cracks.
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Rotate and repeat as needed.
Be gentle to avoid smashing the nut inside. It’s not fancy but perfect for those times when you need a quick crack.
3. Break Small Poultry Bones
If your kitchen scissors are the heavy-duty kind (like poultry shears), that toothed grip can also help hold and break small chicken bones, such as wings or drumsticks.
Place the bone in the grooved section, apply steady pressure, and let the ridges prevent slipping. Just be sure your scissors are strong enough for the job.
Bonus Uses You Might Not Know
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Crack crab or lobster shells when enjoying seafood.
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Open tight plastic caps on juice or milk bottles.
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Hold twist ties or plastic seals firmly so you can cut them cleanly.
If something is slippery, tough, or just hard to grip, that little toothed notch is there to help.
Why Do Scissor Makers Include This Feature?
It’s all about convenience and versatility. Kitchen space is precious, so tools that serve multiple purposes are a win. This simple design turns your scissors into a jar opener, nutcracker, bone gripper, and more—saving you from clutter and extra gadgets.
Does Every Pair of Scissors Have This?
Not always. You’ll find this feature mostly on:
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Heavy-duty kitchen scissors
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Poultry or bone scissors
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Multi-purpose utility scissors
Check your scissors for those matching ridged grooves when closed—if they line up, you’ve got the handy built-in gripper.
Safety Tips
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Don’t force it too hard—excessive pressure can damage your scissors or hurt your hands.
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Keep fingers away from the toothed part to avoid pinching.
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Clean the grooves thoroughly, especially after handling raw meat or sticky foods.
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Use it only for kitchen tasks—opening paint cans or twisting wires could ruin your scissors.
The Hidden Power of That “Goofy Notch”
At first glance, it might seem like a weird or useless feature. But in truth, it’s a smart and versatile tool hiding in plain sight.
With it, your scissors aren’t just for cutting—they’re a mini multi-tool, ready to open jars, crack nuts, break bones, and more.
Next time you reach for your kitchen scissors, don’t overlook that little toothed notch. Give it a try—you might just discover a new favorite kitchen hack!