The ones you use to snip herbs, cut open spice packets, or trim fat off chicken.
Now, flip them over.
Look between the handles — right where the blades meet the pivot.
See that ridged, toothed edge?
It’s not a flaw.
It’s not leftover metal.
It’s not just for grip.
It’s a secret multi-tool — one of the most clever, underused features in your kitchen.
And once you know what it does?
Kitchen remodeling
You’ll never look at kitchen shears the same way again.
Let’s unlock the mystery of that tiny, jagged ridge — and how it can open jars, crack nuts, crush garlic, and even cut foil — all without reaching for another tool.
That ridged, sawtooth-like edge between the handles is intentionally designed — not just for style, but for function.
Found on most high-quality kitchen shears (especially those with a dual-handle design), this feature is made of hardened metal or reinforced plastic — built to grip, crush, and break, not cut.
And while it looks small, it’s actually four tools in one.
Let’s break down its genius.
4 Clever Uses for the Toothed Part on Kitchen Scissors
1. Jar Opener for Stubborn Lids
Ever wrestled with a stuck pickle jar?
This is your new best friend.
How to use it:
Place the toothed edge over the lid of the jar
Squeeze the handles together — the teeth grip the metal rim
Twist the scissors to break the seal
Why it works: The ridges grip the lid like a mini wrench — perfect for slippery or vacuum-sealed jars.
No more banging the lid or using a towel — just squeeze and twist.
2. Nut Cracker for Almonds, Walnuts & More
No nutcracker? No problem.
How to use it:
Place a walnut, almond, or pecan in the toothed groove
Gently squeeze the handles until the shell cracks
Pop out the nutmeat — no mess, no flying pieces
Bonus: Great for cracking open lobster or crab shells too.
3. Garlic & Pepper Crusher
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