A Pry-off or Twist-off crown?
One of the great debates in the beer world comes down to what sits atop our amber glass bottles — the crown, or more precisely, how that crown comes off. The twist-off vs. pry-off debate involves several key factors, including seal quality, convenience, cost, and overall brand image.
The Seal
One of the most common arguments for using pry-off crowns is their reputation for a better seal compared to twist-offs. Whether due to softer metal or the risk of twist-off crowns loosening during packaging and transport, the twist-off has long been questioned for freshness. Sierra Nevada Brewing Co., for example, switched back to pry-off crowns after 12 years when a new, more effective crown liner didn’t work with twist-offs. Still, some brewers claim both styles perform equally well when properly applied.
Convenience
At first glance, twist-offs seem like the obvious choice for convenience — no opener required! But an afternoon of opening tightly torqued caps can lead to sore hands. In fact, Summit Brewing Company reverted to pry-offs after customers complained about how difficult their twist-offs were to remove, often resorting to a bottle opener anyway.
Cost
For smaller breweries, cost often determines the choice. Pry-off crowns are generally cheaper and require less specialized equipment, while twist-off machinery adds extra expense — not ideal for tight startup budgets.
Craft “Image”
Perhaps the strongest argument for pry-off crowns is perception. The majority of craft brewers use pry-offs, making them a defining feature of the craft beer image. Consumers associate pry-offs with premium quality and authenticity, so many brewers follow suit to align with market expectations.
So, Which Crown Style Is Best?
Ultimately, the best choice depends on your brewery’s equipment, budget, brand image, and preferences. Both twist-off and pry-off crowns protect beer effectively when used correctly. The right crown for you is the one that best fits your brewing process — and your audience’s expectations.
