What is a church key?

A church key is a tool traditionally used to open bottles and cans, particularly those containing beer or soda. It typically has two main functions: one end is used to pierce the sealed metal cap on a bottle, while the other end is used to remove the cap by prying it off.

The name "church key" is believed to have originated from the era when churches were the primary gathering places for community events and social gatherings. It was common for churches to provide beverages at events, often bottled or canned, and a tool was needed to open them.

While church keys were once a common household item, they have become less popular with the rise of twist-off bottle caps and easy-open tabs on cans. However, they are still used by some individuals, particularly beer enthusiasts who prefer bottles with traditional metal caps.