an opener for separating the shells of a clam or oyster . the inventive device includes a base plate having a support channel for receiving and supporting an oyster . a lever arm is pivotally mounted to the base plate and includes an engaging tip secured to the lever arm and positioned for engagement with the oyster residing within the support channel to effect cracking and opening of the oyster . the opener substantially reduces a chance of an operator sustaining a laceration during opening of a shell , thereby reducing a risk of viral contamination of the associated clam or oyster .