Abstract: The invention provides a novel, easy to use, hand-operated apparatus for effortlessly loosening the threaded lid of ajar or bottle having a screw-on lid and readily accommodates jars or bottles of different sizes. One form of the invention includes a base having a jar supporting surface, a generally vertically extending guide column connected to the base and a carriage assembly connected to the guide for movement relative to the guide between a first raised position and a second lowered position. Novel features of the invention include the provision of a helical drive screw which drives a jar lid engaging assembly and a novel safety clutch mechanism which prevents the exertion of excessive force on the jar being opened.

Abstract: A jar opening apparatus for opening a jar having a screw-on lid which comprises a base having a jar supporting surface, a generally vertically extending guide column connected to the base and a carriage assembly connected to the guide for movement relative to the guide between a first raised position and a second lowered position. The carriage assembly comprises a carriage; a lid engaging member connected to the carriage for engaging the screw-on lid when the carriage is in the second position, and rotating means for imparting rotation to the lid engaging member. The rotating means uniquely comprises a drive screw connected to the carriage and a cooperating driven tube connected to the lid engaging member. A novel operating mechanism is operably associated with the carriage for moving the carriage between the first and second positions.

Abstract: A combined tool for retrieving buried objects comprises an elongate handle having a first digging tool at one end and a second digging tool at the other end, one of said digging tools comprising a digging implement for digging in compacted material, and the other digging tool comprising a sifting implement for sifting loosened material to separate objects buried therein. The handle may be folded to make the tool more compact for storage or carrying, and a comb or toothed device may be attached to the sifting element to facilitate use of the tool in material containing stones, seashells, or the like, or in wet sand or the like.