Yes we have discussed this issue here several time in the past. It is an issue with some steam canner models and some pressure canner models as well. The 7 jars fit only if using regular mouth jars. Wide mouth jars have wider shoulders allowing only 6 to fit. And there are some models of the commemorative regular mouth jars where only 6 can fit due to their more square shape.

There is no safety issue, just one of inconvenience.

Dave

Thanks Dave, hopefully I'll hear from some others as well with specific information about brands, etc. ( I did do a few hours of forum searching first of course :} )

Are you looking for info on brands of jars or brands of steam canners? For jars, at least IMO, the cheaper cost of Golden Harvest vs. Ball or any of the others outweighs any loading disadvantages. Although after over 50 years of home canning I have plenty of both. I just can't see paying $2-3 more for the jars just to fit an extra one in the canner.

And, I also don't have an addiction to the wide mouth jars that many seem to have either but it is because of the lower costs of reg mouth jars and lids. Perhaps they are easier to clean as many argue but they are also more prone to seal failures.

We also use many of the various collective square shoulder jars that Ball and Kerr have put out over the years.

The jars question is one that often comes up in the canning classes we teach so I guess what I am asking is what concerns you specifically? Yes only 6 of many different jar brands and shapes will fit but it isn't an issue to be concerned about other than convenience.

As you know steam canning has only recently been tested and approved so other than the old so-called 7 Qt. thin aluminum original, manufacturers are just kicking into gear on models and sizes available. Hopefully they will resolve the jar-fit issue.

Dave

I am just interested in surveying people's experiences. Thanks! :}