Abstract: A beverage can compactor including an elongate compaction chamber for receiving emptied beverage cans. A pair of crushing platens are positioned for reciprocating movement from the opposite respective ends of the compaction chamber toward each other and then return to their initial positions at the respective ends of the compaction chamber. The compactor provides increased mechanical advantage at the beginning and end of the crushing stroke when such increased force is needed. Faster movement of the crushing platens is provided at the midpoint of the crushing stroke.