How to open a bucket

Here is the best way to open a regular gasket lid.  Buy one of these tools from Emergency Essentials or a similar store.  http://beprepared.com/product.asp?pn=MS%20L200  It is called a Champion Lid Lifter and it costs $14.95.  I used to have a red plastic one, it was cheaper, but I lost it.

Pry up all around the lid, and lift it up.  You can usually reuse the lid, I haven't ruined any this way.

If you don't have a tool like this, you basically have to cut all the little notches with a knife, and break all your fingernails.  I would rather use the tool.