The Hidden Power of Your Kitchen  Scissors

Ever noticed that little jagged groove near the base of your  kitchen scissors? It might look like a random design quirk—but it’s actually a clever feature with more uses than you’d expect.

 Built-In Nutcracker & Bottle Opener

That serrated notch—sometimes called a nutcracker or bottle grip—is designed to:

• Crack hard shells: Walnuts, hazelnuts, even crab legs
• Pop bottle caps: Hook the cap in the notch and lift
• Grip tough packaging: Ideal for clamshells or vacuum-sealed bags

How to use it: Place the nut or cap in the notch, squeeze the handles, and let the focused pressure do the work.

 Bonus Tricks Chefs Love

• Deveining shrimp: Slide the tip under the vein for a clean lift
• Snipping herb stems: The textured grip keeps slippery stems steady
• Cutting twine or zip ties: Serration prevents slipping for a fast, safe cut

 Why It’s Near the Pivot

Being close to the pivot gives maximum leverage. That placement lets you apply more force with less effort—a small detail that makes your  scissors a versatile kitchen tool.

 The Bottom Line

That “weird toothed part” isn’t weird at all—it’s smart design. It turns your scissors into a multi-tool, saving you trips to the drawer for a nutcracker or bottle opener.