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The Presto 01781 is a full-size, 23-quart stovetop pressure canner intended for gas, electric-coil, and compatible smooth-top ranges. It is a strong general-purpose choice for home canners who do not need induction compatibility.
Presto 01781 at a glance
- 23-quart liquid capacity
- Capacity stated by Presto: 26 half-pints, 20 pints, or 7 quarts
- Extra-strong, warp-resistant aluminum body
- Dial gauge covering the processing-pressure range
- Air vent/cover lock
- Cooking/canning rack and instruction/recipe book included
- 12-year limited manufacturer warranty
- Designed for household range burners rated at 12,000 BTUs or less
Check current Presto 01781 availability
What we like
The large capacity suits common tested pint- and quart-jar processes. The dial gauge displays pressure continuously, replacement parts and manuals are supported by an established manufacturer, and the included rack keeps jars off the canner bottom. It can also function as a boiling-water canner when the jars can be covered by the water depth required by the tested process and manufacturer instructions.
Limitations
The aluminum base is not induction compatible. A filled 23-quart canner is large and heavy, so users with glass or smooth-top ranges must confirm burner diameter, weight limits, and cookware guidance with the range manufacturer. A dial gauge also adds maintenance: follow current guidance for accuracy checks and never assume an unverified gauge is correct.
Who should buy it?
The 01781 is best for home canners who want a full-size, established stovetop model and have a compatible non-induction range. Users who require induction should compare the Presto 01784 instead.
Safe-use checklist
- Read the current model-specific manual before the first batch.
- Inspect the vent, gauge, sealing ring, overpressure plug, lid, and rack.
- Use the tested recipe’s exact jar size, preparation, pressure, processing time, and altitude adjustment.
- Exhaust steam continuously for the specified venting period before applying the regulator.
- Maintain required pressure without interruption and cool naturally.
Verdict
The Presto 01781 remains a practical choice where induction is not required. Its value is capacity, serviceability, and conventional design—not permission to improvise processing. Safe results still depend on tested directions and accurate operation.
Sources: official Presto specifications · NCHFP: Using Pressure Canners
Compare it with the Presto 01784 review, the side-by-side comparison, and our pressure-canning guide.