Seafood dishes can be a real delight, especially oysters, but there’s some learning involved in prepping them. But, things can be much easier with the best oyster shucker machine.
When you become more confident in shucking, it will be the ‘trick’ you pull out at parties and everyone will enjoy the fruits of your fortitude and knowledge.
Although you can always learn to open oysters with a knife, you may also consider a machine.
They’re highly convenient and recommendable for restaurants or any other places where there’s a large volume of oyster prep.
Unlike using a knife, the risk of injuries with a shucker machine is practically non-existent.
These specialized kitchen gadgets saved labor and time and help you yield yummy meat. Below, check out the 10 best models currently that are one click away from you on Amazon!
Table of Contents
Why Do I Need An Oyster Shucker Machine?
An oyster shucker machine can be a real lifesaver if efficiency, quality, and safety are pivotal for you.
When you invest in a shucker machine, you save labor, time, and prevent injuries. And, you’ll always yield yummy meat and delicious oyster juice.
Although you can learn to shuck oysters by hand, when prepping larger volumes, nothing can beat this machine. It’s much faster and the risk of ‘failing’ is much lower.
Whether you’ll need it for home or a restaurant, no other method can match it; they’re efficient, easy to operate, and long-lasting investment.
Oyster Knife vs. Oyster Machine: Which One Should I Choose?
Of course, you don’t necessarily need an oyster shucking machine to prep several oysters because you can crack them open with a knife. In fact, there are specialized oyster knives that can do wonders in the right hands.
Although it requires some learning before it succeeds from the first attempt, it’s a technique that’s widely used. But, what about the less experienced, the people who’re not too savvy with knives?
What if they love eating and prepping oysters, but removing the tough shelling is their biggest challenge? – The answer is simple: a shucking machine.
Unlike a knife that requires a certain technique and putting you at a higher risk of slips and potential injuries, an oyster machine doesn’t require you to be experienced in shucking and it minimizes the risk of injuries.
Which Factors to Consider Before Buying?
Material
- Stainless steel
This is the most common choice for oyster shucker machines these days. It’s praised for its sturdiness, durability, and non-corrosiveness.
Also, it’s the easiest for cleaning. However, it does tend to be more expensive than other materials, for example, plastic.
- Wood
Wood is a natural material, aesthetically pleasing, and durable.
However, when it comes to cleaning, it’s more demanding than other materials such as plastic and stainless steel.
Being porous, it will also absorb more liquids and smells than other materials.
If not adequately taken care of (oiling and disinfection), it becomes the ideal ground for bacteria and other pathogens to thrive.
- Plastic
Hygienic, durable, less fragile, and low-cost, plastic is a good idea for an oyster shucker machine.
However, it’s not as strong and aesthetically pleasing as stainless steel and wood, respectively.
Despite the beneficial properties plastic has to offer, it’s not good for the environment. It’s a non-renewable source that’s polluting our waters and lands.
Base Construction
The base of the oyster shucker machine is a crucial part. It’s the surface for the placement of the oyster and it’s essential to stability. Plus, it’s the part of the machine that takes most of the tension.
This being said, you need to choose a machine with a base made from strong and tough material and possibly one with indentations to ensure the oyster remains firm in place and doesn’t slip around.
Some of the models we presented come with G-clips that allow you to easily attach them to the table and achieve this stability or are already equipped with bottom non-slip rubber feet.
The base can be constructed of various materials too, including stainless steel, plastic, and wood.
The steel ones are known for providing high durability, non-corrosive, and easy cleanup. However, in terms of aesthetics and a more natural choice, there’s rarely something that can beat wood.
However, it may be on the higher end of the budget and may require specific maintenance in order to be kept in optimal shape.
Plastic is also a durable and less expensive option. Plus, it’s easy to clean and offers longevity and sturdiness. Still, it’s not the eco-friendliest option out there.
Height
If you prep oysters regularly, you already know that they’re available in multiple sizes.
Hence, it’s highly recommendable to choose a machine that provides various height range settings so you can easily get the job done.
Most of the models we presented come with a lever that can be adjusted according to the height of the oyster.
Size
When choosing an oyster shucker machine, it’s essential to pick one that’s easy to carry from place to place and one that you can store.
In addition to portability, choose a model with a comfy lever that you can hold without a problem and discomfort.
Oftentimes, the handle is too small or too big and prevents the user from holding it efficiently.
The grip is important so make sure it’s suitable for you.
Type
When choosing an oyster shucker machine, it’s important to consider the various types available.
In the models we presented, we have three common designs that are conditioned by whether the oyster is placed horizontally or vertically and each has its pros and cons.
- Vertical models
Most of the models we presented in this guide are of this type.
That is, they have a bottom surface, an adjustable lever, and the oyster is placed vertically and pried open in this way.
They’re praised for providing fast and easy shucking; however, it does require more stability and confidence in the person who’s doing the shucking-after all, you need to firmly hold the oyster in one hand and do the pressing of the lever with the other.
- Horizontal models
Some of the models we showed in this guide are the ones with a bottom surface, an adjustable lever, but the oyster can be lied down horizontally and pried open in this manner.
This is a much comfier variant since the oyster is to be held only minimally since gravity is already on your side.
What’s more, it may be a suitable choice for people who’re not so shucking-savvy as well as people with some hand pain or injury.
However, since it’s being done from the side, not directly being poked from above, you may need to put in a bit more effort to do it the right way.
Maintenance
Opening up oysters can get messy; so, once in a while, spilling the oyster juice over the machine will happen. And, you surely don’t want this smell to stay forever and your machine to be dirty, right?
This is why it’s important to clean it after using it. You can use a damp cloth and sponge to reach even the crevices where stuff can get stuck.
When you regularly do this, your machine is always clean for next time and you also help prolong its longevity and functionality! If there are wooden parts, disinfection and oiling are also important.
Safety
Without a doubt, shelling oysters isn’t risk-free.
This is because there’s some need of pressure in order to do the opening. And, when a person applies force, the oyster may slip or the base may begin to wobble.
Therefore, it’s essential to choose a machine that’s well built from strong materials.
Opt for features that will optimize your safety such as a longer handle, cut-resistant gloves included in the set, grooves on the base, rubber feet on the bottom, and more.
Warranties & Return Policies
Oftentimes, we get so excited about buying a certain product that we forget to check if the manufacturer gives a warranty for it and what their return policies are.
Although Amazon should cover defective or broken items upon delivery, it’s up to the manufacturers to provide a replacement or not.
This is why before you decide on an oyster shucker machine, you should check the manufacturer’s warranties and policies!
How to Clean My Oyster Shucker Machine?
If the model is made from stainless steel or plastic, maintenance is very easy and straightforward.
You can take out the removable parts and clean them with warm water and dish soap and dry them before putting them back on.
And, remember to do it after every use to prevent bacteria and other pathogens from thriving. This is essential for optimal food safety.
If you have a model with wooden parts, more care is necessary for addition of the water and soap.
You may also need to oil it occasionally, as well as disinfect it. Wood is porous so it tends to absorb stuff, which you can reduce by taking proper care of these parts.
Best Oyster Shucker Machine Reviews
1. Hoomuda Oyster Shucker Machine Set
Highlighted Features
- Comes in a set with a shucker knife and G-clip
- Easy to install
- Sturdy design
- Easy to use
Constructed of premium stainless steel, this machine is sturdy and efficient for oyster shucking. The design is user-friendly and easy to follow.
You fix it onto a table with the G-clip that’s included in the set and choose the appropriate height according to the oyster’s size.
To pry the oyster open, you use the extended handle by lowering it down until the sharp and pointy pry stick shucks it.
The pry stick is made from stainless steel and it’s durable and sturdy. We really love the extended high-end aluminum lever with 5 grooves to help you have a steady and stable grip.
There are grooves on the wide aluminum base too, but this is to keep the oyster stable while puncturing through it.
2. AwShucks Oyster Shucker Machine
Highlighted Features
- Easy to use
- Easy to clean
- Sturdy materials
- Hygienic
Ideal for smaller spaces, but home and restaurant use equally, this compact oyster shucker machine made in the US is great if you want to ease oyster shucking.
The surface board is made of strong and long-lasting plastic while all of the other parts are stainless steel.
The set is easy to use and clean.
To be used, the oyster is placed horizontally and the prying is done in this position, which is very comfy and easier, especially for the less experienced in shucking.
The stainless steel surface is lifted on the side, ensuring no juices spill out and cause more mess. And, the plastic board’s sides are also grooved to keep juices in one place, making the process hygienic and clean.
3. TDOCK’s Oyster Shucker Machine
Highlighted Features
- Tough construction
- Easy to use
- Helps you shuck oysters safely
- Safe design
With this machine in your kitchen, opening oysters will be easy, fast, safe, and enjoyable. Made from premium and long-lasting stainless steel, it’s a smart investment.
The premium aluminum base is wide and designed with 5 indentations to ensure the oyster is firm in place while the pry stick is opening it up.
When you place the oyster on these indentations, you hold the lever and begin pulling it down so that the pry stick is directly pushing into the shell. Being quite long, the handle makes the opening fun and easy.
Customers who bought this shucking machine gave it the most praise for being sturdy, easy to use and a great gift idea for those seafoodies in your life!
4. SNNplapla’s Oyster Shucker Machine
Highlighted Features
- Made of sturdy materials
- Doesn’t corrode
- Versatile
- Comes with protective gloves & G-clips
If you regularly prep oysters, you’ll love this set! It includes an oyster shucker machine, G-clips, and one pair of protective steel gloves.
To fix it onto the table, you use the G-clips and set up the desired height according to the oyster’s size.
You hold the oyster with one hand and the handle in the other and push it down to pry it open. All of the parts of the machine are constructed from premium stainless steel, making it durable, non-corrosive, and waterproof.
What’s more, in addition to using it with oysters, you can also open up other tough-shell seafood with it, including scallops and clams.
5. Vollrath Oyster King Machine
Highlighted Features
- User-friendly
- Ergonomic handle
- Speeds up the shucking process
- Made of strong materials
With one easy and safe stroke, you can open up oysters effortlessly and fast. And, this machine can do wonders, especially if you have to pry open a large volume of oysters daily.
This is one of the most user-friendly machines available.
Its design is made with comfort and usability in mind.
The grip is awesome and comfy thanks to the optimized ergonomic handle.
The base is sturdy and non-slippery thanks to the four rubber feet on the bottom. Stability is essential when working with oysters!
With innovative design and durable construction, this is the best oyster shucker machine for both home and restaurant use!
6. Ropto Oyster Shucking Machine
Highlighted Features
- Sturdy construction
- Long-lasting
- Easy to use
- Easy to set up
This wonderful oyster shucker machine features an all-steel construction plated with nickel. It’s durable and withstands wear and tear. It’s the perfect choice for home and restaurant use.
Thanks to it, oyster shucking will be fast, fun, and easy. It’s consisted of three parts. Two of these parts are already joined together in the form of the letter ‘L’.
The working surface is sturdy and features indentations where the oyster should be placed vertically.
It’s attached to a vertical stick that has several holes which serve to attach the handle onto, depending on the height of the oyster. After doing this, you hold the oyster with one hand and push the lever down to pry it open with the pry stick.
Quick to assemble, thanks to G clips, it’s a machine worth considering if the oyster prep is something you regularly do.
7. Ultimate Stone Crab Cracker’s Oyster Shucker Machine
Highlighted Features
- User-friendly
- Speeds up the shucking process
- Suitable for home & restaurant use
- Made of strong materials
With this sturdy and compact oyster shucker, you can finally say goodbye to tedious, hours-long shucking.
With this professional-grade machine made in the US from premium stainless steel, aluminum, and starboard elements, cracking open their tough shell will be done in a matter of seconds.
What’s more, the one-inch diameter and solid aluminum handle, and the pry stick from stainless steel will multiply your strength and control over the oysters. In addition to being easy to use, it’s also very easy to clean.
Comfort, performance, and longevity, it’s an oyster shucker machine worth considering if you love prepping oysters!
8. Plasmargon Oyster Shucker Machine
Highlighted Features
- Perfect for restaurants
- User-friendly
- Non-slippery bottom
- Useful extras included
Ideal for hotels, seafood markets, and restaurants, this is an oyster shucker machine that delivers optimal results with each use. It’s user-friendly, intuitive, and easy to install.
Unlike most of the previous models, this one doesn’t require G-clips to stand firmly in place but it already does it on its own.
It’s because its base is made of sturdy cast iron. The punching pin will crack the shell open in a matter of seconds; it’s made using 304 food-grade stainless steel.
It will help you speed up the process and pick the desired height according to the size of the oyster. The process of setting up is easy.
In the package, besides the machine, you also get some useful extras, i.e. an oyster shucking knife and a pair of cut-resistant gloves.
9. Baoshishan Oyster Shucking Machine
Highlighted Features
- Thick & durable poking tip
- Non-slippery bottom
- Bidirectional fixed plate
- Easy to set up
It saves your nerves and helps you prep a larger volume of oysters in a shorter amount of time. Made of 30Cr13 and 430 stainless steel and aluminum alloy, it’s sturdy and durable.
We really appreciate the extended 44 cm-long levers with a comfy handle that is easy to press, enabling efficient shucking.
The fixed bidirectional plate design ensures the oyster stays firmly in place and prevents potential hand injuries. This is further enhanced by the rubber feet on its bottom!
Moreover, thanks to the silicon and collision-proof addition on the bottom tray, you needn’t worry about any unpleasant noise from the lever hitting the bottom tray. The manufacturer definitely thought about every detail!
10. Ropto’s Oyster Shucker Machine
Highlighted Features
- Easy to install
- Easy to use
- Versatile
- Safe
Whether small, medium or big oysters in front of you, this machine will help you pry them open within seconds.
The 3-piece machine is entirely made of durable and quality stainless steel. The base has a section with indentations to ensure the oyster is stable when being opened.
Thanks to the G-clips included, you can firmly keep the device in place. You set up the lever according to the height of the oyster and start working.
Fast, safe, and durable, it’s a great choice for home use, but also restaurants, buffets, and any other place where there’s a lot of oysters to be prepped.
Final Thoughts
If you love oyster specialties and they’re on your menu regularly or if you have a restaurant where there’s a lot of oysters to be prepped, investing in an oyster shucker machine may be a wise thing to do.
Of course, prying oysters with a knife has its charms, but the problem arises when a person doesn’t do it often and doesn’t feel confident with a knife and then there’s the efficiency. On the other hand, using a machine that’s designed for it can be a real relief. It can help you tackle the prying fast, effectively, and easily.
You just need to see how it’s used and voila, you’ll have some yummy oyster meat ready for delicious dishes!
If you’re not budget-limited and ready to craft amazing seafood dishes, we recommend you our best pick!
Our budget pick is still a great option-it offers a reasonable price, durability, and efficiency.
