So, how do YOU open that 7.62x39 crate???(Crate Opening for Dummies.)

I read your question, and it took me back. First, mine was sitting on the kitchen table. Second, try opening one of those things from a wheelchair. Seeing the lead, I was all for getting the propane torch, but the wife was looking. Then came the phone call to the place I bought it, "How do you open the box?" Then came the semi annoyed response "Just pull the tabs." I used a crowbar and a claw hammer all the while envisioning a trip to the emergency room while leaking all over the place. My first one did look like Gary Bussy chewed it open.
 
One of the funniest things to watch is a guy who is 5'11" tall and 140 pounds soaking wet trying to open one of these crates...Literally standing on the edges with assorted tools scattered around, and after 16 minutes (to get it half open..) shaking the box on its sides to get out the packs one at a time. Finally, when the crate was empty, he manages to get the rest of the lid off with a Saws-all.

Hilarious.

(I sold my SKS...too much work in getting into the ammo crate )
 
As per the first pictures attached, but I also use a Dremel cutting blade to cut a line along the seam and this helps it split and role easer. WARNING : Don't cut too deep, just the lead seal, and watch out for flying Lead.
 
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This thread saved my life. I bought my first case of 7.62x39mm yesterday, and was very perplexed once opening it.
 
Opening My Crate Caveman Style

Hello,

Not too long ago I bought a crate of ammo for my SKS, 1973 Yugo Surplus. I at first noticed the rings and figured that if I just pulled/twisted them, it would open up. No such luck, I actually broke a ring clear off. Then, using the intelligence of our great ancestor Fug, I reasoned "If crate not open, Fug hit with long pointed object and hammer" Amazingly this worked. By using the edge of a flat pointed screw driver, on a slant, and tapping with the side of a pair of pliers, I managed to cut a couple inches into the crate. I then found a "sweet spot" between the lead solder and the tin plate, hitting that just right while wedging the blade under it made it come off very fast, clean as butter. Not the fastest method, I was going slow but if it was rushed I'm sure it could be done in under a minute for the front and sides, using hard strikes on the back of the screw driver.

Here are some pictures.

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