What Is That Weird Toothed Part on Kitchen Scissors For

Ever noticed the jagged, toothy section nestled between the handles of your kitchen scissors—right behind where your fingers rest? If you’ve ever wondered, “What the heck is that even for?” you’re not alone.

For most people, that odd little ridge is just a mystery—a quirky design element that never seems to serve a purpose. But here’s the truth: it’s one of the most useful features on your kitchen shears, and you’ve probably been ignoring it all this time.

Let’s break down what this hidden tool actually does, how to use it, and why it might just become your new favorite kitchen helper.

First Things First: What Is That Notch?

That jagged, grooved section is typically called a jar opener, nutcracker, or bone gripper, depending on the manufacturer. In everyday terms, it’s a gripping mechanism.

You’ll find it where the handles curve inward. When the scissors are partially closed, the interlocking ridges create a grippy surface that holds objects securely in place.

Think of it as your scissors’ secret superpower—ready to help when your grip fails or when you need extra leverage.

Trick #1: Open Stubborn Jars and Bottle Caps

We’ve all battled a jar lid that refuses to budge. Dish towels, hot water, brute strength—nothing works. That’s when the built-in gripper steps in.

Here’s how to use it:

1. Partially close the scissors so the ridges meet.
2. Place the jar lid or bottle cap between the teeth.
3. Grip the scissors in one hand, the jar in the other.
4. Twist gently but firmly.

The textured surface gives you traction, while the handles provide leverage. Suddenly, that stubborn lid isn’t so stubborn anymore.

Pro tip: This trick is especially helpful for those with arthritis or reduced grip strength.

Trick #2: Crack Nuts (Yes, Really)

If you don’t own a nutcracker, no worries—your scissors have your back.

To use the notch as a nutcracker:

1. Place a nut (like a walnut or hazelnut) in the toothed section.
2. Squeeze the handles gently until you hear the shell crack.
3. Rotate the nut and repeat as needed.

Just don’t Hulk-smash it—you want to crack the shell, not destroy the nut inside. It’s surprisingly effective for most hard-shelled nuts.

Trick #3: Snap Through Poultry Bones

If you’ve got heavy-duty kitchen shears or poultry scissors, that gripper can also help you break down chicken wings, thighs, and other small bones.

Place the bone in the ridged area, apply steady pressure, and let the teeth keep it from slipping while you cut. Just make sure your scissors are up to the task—cheaper or lightweight models may not survive the stress.

Bonus Uses You Might Not Have Tried

This hidden feature is more versatile than it looks. You can also use it to:

• Crack open crab legs or lobster shells
• Open stubborn plastic caps on milk jugs or juice bottles
• Twist out synthetic corks from wine or spirits
• Hold twist ties or plastic seals steady while you cut

Basically, it’s your go-to tool for slippery, tough, or awkward kitchen tasks.

Why Do Scissors Even Have This Feature?

Simple: space-saving utility.

In today’s kitchens—especially apartments or small homes—multi-functional tools are a game-changer. By adding this feature, manufacturers give you three or four tools in one compact design.

Instead of buying (and storing) a nutcracker, jar opener, and seafood tool, you get all of that functionality built right into your scissors.

A Few Safety Reminders

Before you get too excited, keep these precautions in mind:

• Don’t force it. If the item is too tough, forcing it can break the scissors or hurt your hand.
• Watch your fingers. Those ridges are strong—and they can pinch.
• Clean thoroughly after use. Especially after working with meat, seafood, or sticky lids.
• Don’t use it for non-kitchen tasks. It’s tempting to try opening paint cans or twisting wires, but that’s how scissors get ruined.

The Hidden Power of a “Goofy Notch”

That weird-looking ridge you’ve always ignored? It’s not just a design quirk—it’s a brilliantly engineered multi-tool that makes your kitchen scissors even more useful.

Whether you’re popping open jars, cracking nuts, or breaking down chicken, it’s a handy helper you’ll start reaching for once you know it’s there.

So next time you pick up your kitchen shears, give that “goofy notch” some credit. You might be surprised how much it can do.