the basic design of a corkscrew is been based on a tool called a gun worm. this was used by a to remove an unfired bullet from a musket's barrel. in the 1800s, many manufacturers that made gun worms also made corkscrews. the first patented corkscrew in england was by samuel henshall in 1795. in 1883 a flat, lever-style corkscrew called the waiter's friend was invented in germany by karl wienke. it is commonly used in restaurants today.