Shears?

[Larasurs]

We are new to processing. Can I use shears to cut the breastbone, open it up and then just scoop out the guts?
The shoving your hand in and pulling it out really grosses me out!

 

[Molpet]

Yes
I have oxo poultry shears I use for this. Other brands sucked for me, but try what you have.
Just be careful around the gall bladder (green sack full of bile)

 

[Molpet]

Actually I cut along the side with the bird on its back.

 

[aart]

Just be careful around the gall bladder (green sack full of bile)

Not to mention the intestines, cutting either would up the 'gross' factor exponentially.

 

[Molpet]

This is a turkey but I cut chickens the same. I cut along the ribs joint below the breasts.
You could practice on a store chicken