The fighting between the Germans and Russians during the battle of Kursk was at times so close that a term called the "can opener effect" came into use. What is the "can opener effect" referring to?

The Battle of the Kursk is considered the greatest tank battle in history. About 40% of German tanks were destroyed by two Soviet generals, Rokossosky and Vatutin, with their troops; they used an effective new weapon--antitank guns that just ripped through the German tanks.

Good try Kelleygirl, getting warm, but what actually does the term "can opener effect" refer to?

OK, no one has answered this one yet so I will give it to you. The can opener effect referred to tank battles that were engaged so closely that the velocity of the impact from shells hitting at such close range actually caused the tank turrets to fly off the top of the tank much like the top od a can coming off. Thus the "can opener effect". Tank turrets that weigh several tons a piece would sometimes fly off at over 100 feet. The Battle of Kursk and specifically one of the sub battles known as the Battle of Prokorovka Ridge is still the largest clash of tanks in world history.