http://durgan.org/2016/April%202016/1%20April%202016%20Vacuum%20Lid%20Removal%20Tool/HTML/ 1 April 2016 Vacuum Lid Removal Tool To reuse the lids on vacuum canning jars, it is necessary to remove without damage. Experiment has indicated that a combination tool readily available from Walmart is ideal. There are four pressure points separated sufficiently that the lid is not damaged when releasing the vacuum. On Dollar store tools the metal is thinner and the pressure points bite into the lid so beware-cheaper is not always better.
The backside of a dinner table knife works well to pop the lid. Just turn the jar till the knife is snug between the lid and the jar thread, then pop off. Listen to hear the vacuum seal released. I don't think the lids are designed to be used again, nor recommended.
I reuse the lids if they are not damaged, damage often happens when removing without an adequate tool. The one I showed works fine with absolutely no damage to the lid. Experience indicates that there are similar failure to seal with reused or new lids. Never have I had a seal fail after it has once sealed when removed from the Pressure Cooker. If a jar after pressure cooking is not sealed, it is redone or used within a few days. I do around 500 liter jars of plant produce each year of almost anything that is available. The knife system works OK but is annoying doing at least one jar per day. The vintage tool is available on EBay , but I have not found a current manufacturer. Vintage EKCO Miracle Vacuum Jar Cap Lifter | eBay
Have found some of the sealing compound (new) has gone gummy after long storage periods, 7-10 years, and parts stuck to the jar rim when removing the lid. The food was still very good.
We try to let salmon age about 4 years before using it, don't know how that works for fruit and vegetables though.
