Let me start by saying I’ve had a rollercoaster experience with this Rabbit corkscrew. When it works, it’s like magic – the built-in foil cutter slices through the seal effortlessly, and the lever mechanism pops corks out in seconds. I especially love how the solid metal lever gives me controlled leverage without straining my wrists.

However, consistency is this opener’s Achilles’ heel. Like some reviewers mentioned, I’ve had bottles where it failed spectacularly – either leaving half the cork inside or refusing to grip altogether. The mechanism requires an uncomfortably strong squeeze on certain bottles (French wines seem to be its nemesis). When it does work though, that satisfying ‘pop’ sound makes me feel like a professional sommelier.

The design is brilliant in theory – the way the cogs are supposed to engage reminds me of fine watch mechanics. But in practice? My first unit had gears that barely meshed unless I applied Hulk-like pressure. After reading about quality control issues, I exchanged mine and got one that functions better (though still not perfectly).

What surprises me most is how polarizing this tool is – people either swear by it or curse at it. For casual wine drinkers opening 1-2 bottles weekly, it’s probably overkill (a basic waiter’s corkscrew works fine). But if you regularly host dinner parties or have weak grip strength, a properly functioning Rabbit can be a game-changer – when you get a good one.

Pro tip: Always use the foil cutter first – it preserves the mechanism longer. And if your unit feels stiff out of the box? Return it immediately rather than hoping it ‘breaks in.’ At this price point, you deserve one that works smoothly from the first pull.