Buying guide
Corkscrews: Waiter’s Friend, Wing or Lever?
The right corkscrew opens a bottle without a broken cork. Waiter’s friends, wing corkscrews, lever and electric openers compared, plus what to use on old, crumbly corks.
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A corkscrew is used a few times a year in some homes and every day in others. A good one grips the cork firmly and needs little strength, so the cork comes out whole.
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Types
| Corkscrew | Good for | Watch out for |
|---|---|---|
| Waiter’s friend | Small, cheap and reliable; folds into a drawer | Needs a little practice |
| Wing corkscrew | Easy to use: the arms rise as the screw goes in | Bulky; cheap ones can bend |
| Lever corkscrew | Very little effort; quick for many bottles | Large and more expensive |
| Electric opener | Anyone with weak grip or wrist pain | Needs charging |
| Two-prong cork puller | Old, crumbly corks | Takes practice |
What to check
- The screw (worm): an open spiral with a sharp point grips better than a solid, drill-like screw, which can tear the cork.
- A foil cutter: built into most waiter’s friends; also sold separately.
- A two-step lever on a waiter’s friend makes long corks easier.
Tips
Screw in until only one turn of the spiral is left showing, then lift slowly. Many bottles now have screw caps, but a corkscrew is still worth having for Christmas.
Making mulled wine? See also wine glasses and decanters.
Frequently asked questions
Which type of corkscrew is easiest to use?
Lever and electric corkscrews need the least strength. A wing corkscrew is a good, inexpensive middle ground.
How do I open a bottle with a crumbly cork?
Use a two-prong cork puller, which slides down either side of the cork, or screw in gently at an angle and lift slowly. Strain out any crumbs.
What is a waiter’s friend?
A folding corkscrew with a screw, a lever that rests on the bottle neck, and a small foil knife. It is what most bar staff use.
How we choose
BeneRecipes compares tools using manufacturer specifications and retailer listings. We have not tested these products ourselves and don't publish star ratings. We explain which type suits which cook and why.
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