How do I get the lids off?

[jsl]

Off my new tins of antifouling, that is. Deeply inserted lids with a minimal and very flexible lip. The last time I tried, it took about ten minutes per tin, going round and round with a screwdriver and pliers. Is there some clever trick? Am I being an idiot (again?) Open at other end, perhaps?

 

[MoodySabre]

A screwdriver is often too narrow so it just distorts a small part of the lip - try something wider.

 

[Thistle]

Off my new tins of antifouling, that is. Deeply inserted lids with a minimal and very flexible lip. The last time I tried, it took about ten minutes per tin, going round and round with a screwdriver and pliers. Is there some clever trick? Am I being an idiot (again?) Open at other end, perhaps?

One of these? http://www.ebay.co.uk/bhp/paint-tin-opener?

 

[Rigger Mortice]

Bicycle tyre lever.

 

[bert49uk]

The answer is not to use the screw driver at right angles to the tin bring the handle as close to the tin as you can while still getting a purchase

 

[nigelmercier]

You mustn't open the tins, that stuff dangerous. That's why they make it impossible.

At least, this is what I assume.

 

[Resolution]

One of these? http://www.ebay.co.uk/bhp/paint-tin-opener?

Big +1. Got one last month and it is SO easy.

 

[alahol2]

They seem to have low pressure inside the tin holding the lid down. Put a hole in the middle of the lid to allow some air in. Seal with sealant if you want to keep the tin.

 

[forelle541]

Put the tin in the back of your van securely wedged in and drive a few miles home, worked for me.

 

[David2452]

I always keep a couple of these in my plumbing tool bag, loads of uses and should do paint tins well, not that I have opened one for years, anti fouling is something I will have nothing to do with. http://www.screwfix.com/p/pry-bar-203mm/37748