How the beer mortar works: the bottle opener that launches the cap

The beer mortar is a bottle opener unlike any other: it opens your bottle and sends the cap flying skyward, like a tiny cannon. You load the cap, you aim upward, you pop the bottle, and off it goes. The result: a dead-simple gesture that turns every beer into a mini show. Here's exactly how it works and how to enjoy it.

How does it actually work?

The bottle opener that launches the cap is purely mechanical, with no batteries: the mortar holds the cap the moment you open the bottle, then releases it straight up. You pop the bottle as usual, and instead of dropping to the floor, the cap is fired into the air. No settings, no special effort.

The 4 steps

1. 1Load: place the bottle and its cap into the mortar, ready to go.
2. 2Aim: point the mortar upward, toward a clear space.
3. 3Pop: the classic opening move, nothing more.
4. 4Lift-off: the cap is launched into the air, the party cheers.

That little cannon effect is what earned the product its nickname: some people even call it the beer cannon. No motor, no electronics, just clever mechanics. To see the move in action, head over to our how it works page.

Does it really take 10 seconds to master?

Yes, and that's the whole point: no instruction leaflet gathering dust in the box. You open your first beer, the cap flies off, and you've got it. By the second one, you're already aiming for fun. Beginner or seasoned host, the result is the same within seconds.

• Zero setup: straight out of the box, it's ready.
• Natural move: you open as usual, the magic does the rest.
• No maintenance: a quick wipe and it's good for years.
• See the full details on the product page.

How do you use it safely?

Good usage comes down to one simple rule: aim at the ceiling or the sky, never at people. A cap taking off is still a small projectile, so keep the mortar pointed toward a clear area, away from faces, glasses and pets. Used properly, it's as safe as it is fun.

• Aim upward, into a space with no people or fragile objects.
• Never point the mortar at anyone, even as a joke.
• Keep children back at the moment of the shot.
• Indoors, make sure the ceiling is high and there's room around.

Nothing complicated: it's the same reflexes as with a champagne cork. You have fun, but you keep a level head, especially a few rounds in.

What is the mortar made of, and is it sturdy?

The mortar is built to stay on the coffee table, not at the back of a drawer. We favour robust materials that survive drinks after drinks, the odd drop and the slightly clumsy hands of a late evening. An object that lasts, that you reach for every time with the same grin.

• Robust build, made for regular use.
• Simple mechanism, so nothing fragile to break.
• Compact format, easy to store and to carry along.
• Great looks: it belongs on display, not hidden away.

Why has it become the star of the party?

Because it does something. A classic opener opens a beer; the mortar creates a little shared moment with every bottle. You aim, you bet on the trajectory, you laugh off the misses. That instant, repeatable spectacle is what makes it so addictive at the party.

• Guaranteed "wow" from the very first cap.
• It brings people together: everyone wants a shot.
• It gets talked about: the object you mention after the night.
• A gift that sticks, far more than a forgotten gadget.

Want to compare it with other fun models? Take a look at our pick of unusual bottle openers, then grab yours in the shop.

Frequently asked questions