Abstract: Disclosed is a portable opener for removal of covers which are threadedly attached to containers, such as jars of the type commonly found in households. The opener includes a unitary housing, shaped generally as an inverted L. The vertical portion of the housing contains a motor, and a power supply, while the upper, horizontal portion of the housing contains a drive mechanism which is driveably attached to the motor and to a vertically adjustable and removable first gripping means, which is adapted to grip the cover of a container. This first gripping means includes a resilient body which is adapted to be compressed around the container cover by an over center clamping mechanism. A second gripping means is provided to retain the container. The second gripping means surrounds the container and also utilizes an over center clamping mechanism.