Cracking open fresh crab and lobster to get to the succulent meat inside can be a struggle without the right tools. Those shells are tough! While you can use your bare hands or random kitchen tools to try prying them open having a proper crab cracker makes the process so much easier and safer. Trust me after steaming up a few crabs or boiling some lobster tails for dinner, you’ll be glad you invested in a quality crab cracker.
So where exactly can you find the best crab crackers for the job? I’ve cracked many a crab leg and lobster claw in my day, so I’m sharing my tips on the top places to shop for high-quality crab crackers that are up to the task. Whether you’re shopping online or in-person here is where to buy sturdy and effective crab crackers so you can spend less time struggling and more time enjoying your delicious seafood.
Online Retailers
Shopping online opens up your options and allows you to easily compare different brands and prices. Here are some top online stores for finding crab crackers:
Amazon
With its incredibly vast inventory Amazon is my number one recommendation for finding crab crackers online. They carry all types of crackers at various price points from brands like OXO Cuisinart, RSVP, and more. Amazon has reliable 2-day shipping for Prime members, and many products are available with faster 1-day delivery. The reviews from verified purchasers are also extremely helpful when making your buying decision.
I suggest checking out top-rated options like the OXO Good Grips Seafood Cracker, Hiware Heavy Duty Crab Crackers and Picks Set, and Cuisinart Stainless Steel Crab Crackers. You really can’t go wrong with the selection on Amazon!
Sur La Table
For a more curated selection of high-end kitchenware, Sur La Table is a great source for quality crab crackers. They carry products like the Rösle Seafood Crackers and the Wüsthof Seafood Crackers and Picks Set. The product descriptions offer helpful details, plus Sur La Table has fast shipping and easy returns if you need to exchange something.
Williams Sonoma
Similar to Sur La Table, Williams Sonoma sells upscale kitchen tools and cookware. Browse their seafood preparation tools section for picks like the Shun Blue Steel Seafood Crackers and Dubost Laguiole Seafood Tools Set. The classic crab cracker design with wood handles makes a nice gift. Williams Sonoma also has an excellent return policy.
Webstaurant Store
If you’re prepping lots of crabs and lobsters for a crowd, Webstaurant Store has affordable bulk packs of crab crackers. Look for the choice of zinc crab crackers from Update International available in sets of 6, 12, or 24. With bulk savings and discounted shipping rates, this is the way to go for large parties or seafood boils.
Etsy
For unique, handmade crab crackers, Etsy offers artisan options you won’t find anywhere else. Browse the seafood tools category to discover small shops selling custom crafted wooden handled or decorated crackers. Supporting small business owners is an added bonus when shopping on Etsy.
Specialty Stores
Beyond general online shops, there are some specialty stores tailored specifically for seafood tools and cooking supplies. Here are some go-to spots for crab crackers:
Maine Lobster Now
Based in Maine, this company knows a thing or two about how to crack lobsters and crabs! Check out their metal shell crackers, lobster cracker, and other seafood preparation tools.
Get Maine Lobster
Similar to Maine Lobster Now, Get Maine Lobster is a great place to order quality seafood along with the tools you need to prepare it. Grab claw crackers, lobster picks, bibs, and more.
Lobster Anywhere
This retailer ships live lobsters and seafood across the country along with providing the cooking supplies. Snag heavy duty lobster crackers, crab mallets, claws, and picks for all your crustacean needs.
Local Retailers
If you prefer to see products in person before buying, head to these local stores to browse their selection of crab crackers:
Kitchen Supply Stores
Check out kitchen supply shops like Sur La Table, Williams Sonoma, Bed Bath & Beyond, Crate and Barrel, and Cost Plus World Market. Their cooking tools and gadgets section will likely have a nice variety of crab crackers to choose from. You can test out the grip and leverage.
Hardware Stores
Hardware stores actually carry a surprising amount of specialty kitchen tools, including seafood crackers. Look at stores like Ace Hardware, True Value, and Do it Best Hardware for options like the Old Bay Seafood Crackers and Claw Daddy Seafood Crackers.
Grocery Stores
Some grocery stores sell crab crackers, particularly during peak seafood seasons. Check the cooking tools aisle or seafood counter at stores like Kroger, Publix, Safeway, Harris Teeter, and Albertsons.
Seafood Markets
Local seafood shops and fish markets are an ideal place to ask about recommendations for quality crab crackers. They sell the seafood and know which tools are best for prepping it! Places like Harbor Fish Market, The Lobster Place, and Seattle Fish Co are good bets.
Restaurant Supply Stores
If you can shop at a restaurant supply store, they often stock heavy duty crackers made for commercial kitchens. Look for brands like Update International and Choice at stores like Restaurant Depot, Gordon Food Service, and Webstaurant Store.
Key Features to Look For
Once you’ve narrowed down where to shop, keep these important features in mind when comparing and selecting crab crackers:
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Material – Zinc alloy or stainless steel offer the most durability for leverage and strength. Avoid plastic.
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Comfortable Grip – Crab crackers can get slippery, so look for textured, non-slip handles that are easy to hold onto. Silicone, rubber, or textured plastic grips work well.
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Hinge – A strong hinge where the two handles meet allows the crackers to generate enough force to break the shells. Spring-loaded is best.
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Size – Consider the size of crabs or lobsters you’ll be cracking. Larger shells and claws need wider, longer crackers for leverage.
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Curve – A curved shape fits comfortably in your hand. Completely straight handles can be awkward to grip.
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Price – Crab crackers range from $5 to $40. Consider how often you’ll use them. More frequent use warrants a pricier heavy-duty pair.
Cracking Open Crabs Like a Pro
Once you’ve selected the best crab crackers for your needs, use these pro tips when cracking your crabs:
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Use a sharp knife or kitchen shears to snip off the pointy tips of lobster claws. This prevents pokes!
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Focus on the claws, knuckles, and legs. That’s where the most meat is.
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Position the crab cracker at a leg joint and squeeze to break through.
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Don’t squeeze too hard! Let the cracker do the work. Gentle pressure cracks the shell.
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For stubborn spots, reposition the cracker and apply pressure from a different angle.
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Use a seafood pick to pull meat out once cracked.
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Provide small dishes for discarded shells or bowls for whole cracked legs and claws.
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Offer warm drawn butter, lemon wedges, and seafood sauce for dipping.
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Keep a moist paper towel nearby to wipe debris and seasonings from fingers.
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Use a mallet or rolling pin to gently crack claws if crackers can’t penetrate the shell.
With the right crab cracker from a reputable retailer and these tips for efficiently cracking shells, your next seafood feast will be that much more enjoyable. Spend less time struggling to open crab legs or lobster tails and more time savoring the sweet meat inside. Give your hands a break and let a quality crab cracker take over the tough work. Trust me, your fingers will thank you!
Cracking and picking crabs and lobsters does take some getting used to. Don’t get discouraged if it feels awkward at first. Once you get the hang of using an effective crab cracker and practice the techniques, you’ll look like a pro serving up freshly cracked crab and lobster. Now get out there and start smashing some shells! Your tastebuds will be glad you did.
