Quotes

Success usually comes to those who are too busy to be looking for it.Henry David Thoreau

5 Best Snake Tongs

 


Most recommended
Fnova Upgraded 47
  • Color: Silver
  • Automatic lock Design
  • Fnova
A good choice too
IC ICLOVER 52
  • Size: Snake Catching Tool Set
  • IC ICLOVER
  • Smooth Hook
A good choice too
ARD CHAMPS INC. 60 Pro
  • Hand-Contoured Pistol
  • Spring-Loaded Jaw
  • 2.7 Pounds
Snake Tongs
  • Available from these sellers
  • Size: 36
  • Snake Stix
M-1 Series Snake
  • Length: 52″L
  • Brand: Midwest Gloves
  • Kitchen & Dining

Choose the Best Snake Tong

Customer’s Choice: the Best Rated Snake Tongs

96 users answered this survey. Please help us improve this review!

18.75% of users selected Fnova Upgraded 47, 7.29% selected IC ICLOVER 52, 54.17% selected ARD CHAMPS INC. 60 Pro, 10.42% selected Snake Tongs and 9.38% selected M-1 Series Snake. Every month we analyze your answers and change our rating.

When it comes to the best snake tongs, there are many different options on the market. It can be difficult to know which one is right for you without trying them all out. In this article, we will answer some of the most common questions about snake tongs and provide reviews of the top five products on the market. We will also offer some tips on how to choose the right snake tongs for your needs.

Fnova Upgraded 47 Inch Professional Collapsible Snake Tongs

The Fnova Upgraded 47 Inch Professional Collapsible Snake Tongs are perfect for gripping onto slippery snakes. Made from sturdy stainless steel, these tongs are built to last. They have a comfortable handle which makes them easy to use, and a useful collapsible feature which is perfect for storage.

Plus, they come with a safety latch to ensure that they stay securely closed. This device is ideal for handling snakes safely and easily. So if you’re looking for a professional-grade pair of snake tongs, you may want to give these a try.

The IC ICLOVER 52″ Snake Tong + 39.3″ Snake Hook is a great tool for those who want to capture and handle snakes. However the jaws on the tongs are very sharp, so be careful with handling snakes using them. It also may take some practice to get the hang of using them properly. In addition, the bolts on the tongs may need to be tightened occasionally. The last downside to these tongs is that they can be hard to use on larger snakes and baby snakes.

Pros
  • Provides a good grip;
  • Sturdy stainless steel construction;
  • Comfortable handle;
  • Comes with safety latch;
  • Has a useful collapsible feature;

Cons
  • Jaws are too rough;
  • Requires some practice to use;
  • Bolts may require tightening;
  • Hard to grab larger snakes with;


IC ICLOVER 52″ Snake Tong + 39.3″ Snake Hook

Do you love spending time outdoors, but hate having to deal with pesky snakes? Then this is the perfect product for you! The IC ICLOVER 52″ Snake Tong + 39.3″ Snake Hook is the perfect tool for capturing snakes without having to get too close.

The long handle makes it easy to grab those slithery critters, and the extra cable ensures a safe and secure grip. So next time you’re out hiking or camping, be prepared for any snake encounters with this handy tool!

IC ICLOVER 52″ Snake Tong + 39.3″ Snake Hook is a great tool to have, but it definitely has its flaws. The assembly process is complicated and the product isn’t very sturdy. The jaws are also quite flimsy, which could be dangerous if you are dealing with venomous species. It also would’ve been much better if they had included some padding on the tongs as the jaws can hurt the snake. The description clearly says it comes with a hook, but some users have reported that this isn’t true, as the hook was missing from their package. Overall, this product is good for those who want to capture and handle snakes, but it’s not perfect.

Pros
  • The handle is very long;
  • Versatile;
  • Comes with an extra cable;
  • Easy to use;

Cons
  • Requires assembly;
  • Not sturdy;
  • Jaws are flimsy;
  • Comes without padding;
  • May come without a hook as promised;


ARD CHAMPS INC. 60″ Pro Snake Tongs

If you are looking for a humane way to remove snakes from your property then consider looking into the ARD CHAMPS INC. 60″ Pro Snake Tongs. These tongs are made of an aluminum tube and are spring-loaded for more precision, making them safe to use and providing a strong grip.

Plus, they’re gentle enough to use on snakes, so you can remove them from your property without harming them. With this product, you will get the peace of mind that comes with knowing you can safely and effectively remove snakes from your property.

ARD CHAMPS INC. 60″ Pro Snake Tongs are affordable yet reliable products. However there are some things you should keep in mind before deciding on this one. Made of flimsy materials, this product may not last long under heavy use, but it’s a great option for those on a budget. In addition, the shaft can be bent and the pieces can be hard to connect, but if you are willing to work around these issues, it will do a decent job.

Pros
  • Handle is made of an aluminum tube;
  • Jaw is spring-loaded for more precision;
  • Humane;
  • Safe to use;
  • Provides a strong grip;

Cons
  • Flimsily made;
  • Shaft can be bent;
  • Pieces can be hard to connect;


Snake Stix Snake Tongs

Snake Stix Snake Tongs offer a reliable way to handle pesky dangerous snakes in your garden. These lightweight and versatile tongs are perfect for catching snakes without harming them.

They’re also extremely sturdy, making them the perfect tool for anyone who wants to stay safe while interacting with these slithering creatures.

If you’re looking for tongs that are long enough to safely handle snakes, then Snake Stix are the perfect choice. These tongs are made from durable materials and are designed to be comfortable to use. However the beginners might be overwhelmed with just how many features these tongs include. Lastly, some users may find them not long enough for their needs, but this is usually not a dealbreaker.

Pros
  • Reliable to handle dangerous snakes;
  • Lightweight;
  • Versatile;
  • Doesn’t harm the snake;
  • Sturdy;

Cons
  • May not be long enough for some;
  • May be too much for the starters;


M-1 Series Snake Tongs

The M-1 Series Snake Tongs are the perfect tool to safely handle venomous snakes.These tongs offer a long reach, making them ideal for handling snakes, and the jaws have a strong grip to keep them securely in place.

The jaw is also rubber coated to prevent injury to the snake, making this a humane option for handling these creatures.

This pair of tongs may seem perfect, but it’s not flawless. The construction is durable and they are comfortable to use. But the only downside is that the handle isn’t quite long enough for every situation. If you’re looking for a solid pair of tongs that will get the job done however, the M-1 Series is still a great choice.

Pros
  • Safe to use;
  • Offers a long reach;
  • Ideal to handle venomous snakes;
  • Jaws have a strong grip;
  • Jaw is rubber coated for humane handling;

Cons
  • Not long enough for certain situations;


 

Buyers Guide

Snake Tongs and Their Purpose

Most people think that tongs are an outdated and impractical tool, but this couldn’t be further from the truth. Tongs can be used for a variety of tasks, including handling snakes. That’s right – snake tongs are a tool that is specifically designed to help you safely handle snakes.

Snake tongs are a type of snake handling tool that is used to safely grab and hold snakes. They are long, slender, and have two prongs on the end that open and close like pliers. Snake tongs are made from various materials such as aluminum, stainless steel, or fiberglass.

Snake Tongs and Their Purpose

Some people use snake hooks instead of tongs, but tongs are generally considered the safer option as they allow you to keep a firmer grip on the snake and avoid getting bitten.

If you live in an area heavily populated with wild snakes, or if you work with snakes regularly, then it’s a good idea to invest in a pair of snake tongs.

Are Snake Tongs Safe For Snake Handling?

Snake tongs are definitely safe for handling snakes – as long as you use them properly, that is. Snake tongs can give you a much-needed extra level of security and peace of mind when handling snakes, especially if you’re not used to it. That said, it is still important to exercise caution when using tongs and to be aware of your surroundings.

If you are new to handling snakes, it is best to start with a non-venomous species and work your way up. And it’s always best to consult with a reptile veterinarian or experienced reptile keeper before purchasing any supplies.

Be sure to read the manufacturer’s instructions before using any snake handling tool as well. [1],[2],[3],[4],[5],[6]

Alternatives to Snake Tongs

If you’re not comfortable using tongs, there are other options available for you.

Snake hooks

If you don’t want to handle your snake with tongs, another common tool is the snake hook. Snake hooks are long poles with a curved end that allows you to grab the snake without having to get too close. They can be used for moving snakes around or for picking them up if they’re in an inaccessible spot.

There are some drawbacks to using snake hooks, however. First, they can be difficult to control, especially if you’re not used to handling them. Second, they can damage the snake’s skin if not used properly. And finally, some people simply don’t like the idea of handling a snake with a hook. If you’re one of those people, tongs may be a better option for you.

Tailing

Tailing is a method of snake handling that involves grabbing the tail of the snake with your hand and then restraining it. This method can be used with both venomous and non-venomous snakes, but it’s important to note that you are more likely to get bitten if you use this method as you will need to touch the snake with your hand directly. This should be taken seriously, especially if dealing with venomous snakes, so if you are dealing with rattlesnakes, it’s better to opt-in for tongs instead.

Tailing is generally only recommended for experienced snake handlers as it requires a high level of skill and precision. [1],[3],[4],[5]

How to Use Snake Tongs Properly?

Now that we’ve answered the question, “are snake tongs safe?” let’s move on to how to use them properly.

Identify the snake you are dealing with

The first step is to identify the snake you are dealing with. This will help you determine the size and type of tongs you need. Are you dealing with a garter snake or a python? A venomous snake or a constrictor?

Once you know what type of snake you are dealing with, it’s time to choose the right size tongs. Snake tongs come in different sizes depending on the size of the snake you will be handling. It is important to choose the right size. If the tongs are too small, they won’t be able to grip the snake properly. If they are too large, they may cause injury to the snake.

It’s also important to choose tongs that have smooth jaws.
This will prevent them from damaging the snake’s scales and spine.

If the snake is venomous you might need special gloves that protect you from the snake’s fangs. Consider buying a pair of protective goggles as well.

Prepare a container for the snake

Once you have the proper equipment, it’s time to prepare a container for the snake. The lid should have a handle so you can easily remove it without having to touch the inside of the container. Make sure that the lid is secure so that the snake cannot escape. If you can’t get rid of the snake right away, place the container in an area that is out of reach of children and pets. You don’t want anyone accidentally getting hurt by the snake.

Prepare a container for the snake

Also make sure that the container is large enough for the snake to move around in and that there are no holes or tears that the snake could escape through. It also shouldn’t be able to bite through the container.

Another option is to purchase a snake bag. These bags are designed to safely contain snakes and can be used for transport or storage. Some bags even have a built-in handle so that you can easily carry them around.

Aim at the correct angle

Now that everything is prepared, it’s time to catch the snake. First, you will need to find the snake. This can be done by looking for movement in the grass or under rocks. Once you have found the snake, approach it slowly and quietly so as not to startle it.

When you are ready to catch the snake, position the tongs so that they are at a 45 degree angle from the ground. This will give you more control over the snake and prevent it from wiggling out of the tongs.

Grab the snake properly

Once you have the tongs in position, quickly grab the snake behind its head. This is the most important part. If you grab it too far back, the snake will be able to reach around and bite you. And if you grab it too close to the neck, you run the risk of injuring the snake and making it more aggressive.

If your snake is particularly long, you can use the tong as described, but together with a hook to grab the snake’s tail.

Don’t squeeze the snake too hard

Once you have a firm grip on the snake, lift it up so that its body is in line with your arms. This will help prevent it from twisting and turning and escaping from the tongs. But it’s also important not to squeeze it too hard. This can injure the snake or even kill it. Just hold it gently but firmly so that it cannot escape.

Move carefully but not too slowly

Now that you have the snake in the tongs, it’s time to move it to the container. But be careful not to move too slowly or the snake will become agitated and more likely to escape. Just keep moving steadily and carefully until you reach the container.

Once you have reached the container, place the lid on top and secure it so that the snake cannot escape. And that’s it!

You’ve successfully caught a snake using tongs.

After you have safely transported the snake, release it into its new home and wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water. [2],[5],[7]

Buyers Guide for the Best Snake Tongs

We hope our reviews helped you find the best snake tongs for your needs. If you’re still not sure which pair is right for you, then check out our buyer’s guide below for more information.

Length of the pole

The length of the pole is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing snake tongs. You want a pair that’s long enough to reach the snakes you’re trying to catch, but not so long that they’re cumbersome to use.

Most snake tongs range in length from 40 to 60 feet, with 40 ft models being more common.
Poles that are too short will make it difficult to catch larger snakes, while those that are too long will be unwieldy and difficult to control.

In general, it’s best to consider the pole length based on the type of snakes that are frequent in your area. If you’re only dealing with small garter snakes, then a forty-foot pair of tongs will probably suffice. But if you live in an area with large rattlesnakes, then you’ll need something longer. Still, situations differ, so if you’re not sure which size to choose, go for longer rather than shorter. [2],[8]

Build quality

The build quality of your snake tongs is also important. After all, you don’t want a pair that’s going to fall apart after a few uses.

There are a few things to look for when judging the build quality of a pair of tongs. First, consider the materials they’re made from. Snake tongs are typically made from either aluminum or fiberglass. Aluminum is cheaper but not as durable, while fiberglass is more expensive but will last longer.

Next, take a look at the joints and connections. Make sure they’re well-made and not likely to come apart with extended use. Jaw mechanism of your tong also shouldn’t jam or break easily. [1],[5],[8]

Sturdiness of cables

The cables that connect the tongs to the pole are also important. On most tongs, the cables will be exposed. For that reason you want a pair of tongs with strong, durable cables that won’t snap when you’re trying to catch a snake.

At the same time, you don’t want cables that are so thick and inflexible that they make it difficult to control the tongs. The best snake tongs have a balance of strength and flexibility, so they can withstand plenty of abuse without being too difficult to use.

Sturdiness of cables

When considering the sturdiness of the cables, it’s also important to think about how they’re attached to the poles. Some models have welded connections, while others have bolted or screwed connections. Welded connections are usually stronger, but bolted or screwed connections are easier to replace if they do break. [8]

Comfortableness of use

Another important consideration is how comfortable the tongs are to use. After all, you’ll be spending a lot of time holding them, so they should feel good in your hands.

The best way to gauge comfort is simply to hold the tongs in your hands and see how they feel. Are the handles easy to grip? Do they fit comfortably in your hand, or are they too small or too large? Is the weight evenly distributed, or does it feel top-heavy?

These may seem like small details, but they can make a big difference in terms of comfort. If you’re going to be using the tongs for long periods of time, then you want something that feels good in your hands and won’t cause fatigue.

Tong also shouldn’t be too heavy, as this will make them difficult to control. Again, it’s best to try out a few different pairs before making a decision.

Pole of the tong also should be slip-proof. Last thing you want is the tong slipping off your hands when you’re trying to catch a snake. [2],[5],[8]

Shape of the jaw

The shape of the jaws is another important consideration when choosing snake tongs. Most models have either Pilstrom, flat or gentle jaws, with each type having its own advantages and disadvantages.

Pilstrom jaws are the most common type of jaws found on snake tongs. They’re shaped like a pair of pliers, with two long, flat jaws that come to a point at the tips.

Pilstrom jaws are very strong and can easily catch and hold onto snakes.
However, they can also damage snakes if you’re not careful. If you’re going to use Pilstrom jaws, be sure to handle the snakes gently and avoid squeezing them too tightly.

Flat jaws, on the other hand, are better suited for catching large snakes. They are similar to pilstrom jaws but provide a wider surface area to grip onto, making it less likely for the snake to escape. However, they can be more difficult to use on smaller snakes since there’s a greater chance of crushing them.

Gentle jaws are the second most common type of jaws found on snake tongs. They’re much wider than other types of jaws, but they have softer, rounded edges instead of sharp points. But due to their size, these jaws could be too big to get into some tighter spaces.

Shape of the jaw

From this, you should also consider how humane you want to be when choosing the shape of the jaws. If you don’t want to harm the snake, choose jaws with a special padding to cushion the grip. These are typically made of softer materials like rubber or nylon. [2],[8]


FAQ

Do snake tongs work?

Yes, snake tongs can be a great tool for handling snakes, especially when you are first starting out. They can help you to feel more comfortable and confident when handling snakes, and can also provide a level of protection from getting bitten.

However, it is important to note that snake tongs are not a substitute for proper training and experience. If you are new to handling snakes, it is best to seek out professional help or guidance before attempting to use tongs.

Additionally, even experienced handlers should use caution when using tongs, as there is always a risk of injury if they are used improperly.

What is the best length for snake tongs?

The best length for snake tongs is about 40 to 60 inches. This allows you to reach the snake from a safe distance and not get bitten.

Some people prefer shorter tongs, but they can be more difficult to grab snakes with. If you choose shorter tongs, make sure they have a good grip so you can still handle the snake safely.

Where should you grab a snake?

There are two main grabbing points on a snake – behind the head, or at the base of the tail. Each has its own set of pros and cons that you should take into account before making your decision. Usually, you would want to combine both of these methods.

Behind the head: Grabbing behind the head gives you more control over the snake’s movements and makes the snake immobilized, but it can be dangerous if you grab it too close to the head as the snake may decide to strike.

At the base of the tail: The base of the tail is where most of the snake’s muscles are located, so it’s a good place to get a strong grip. However, you need to be careful not to damage the snake’s spine.

Useful Video: Snake Hook vs Snake Tong | Which One Should I Choose?

Conclusion

If you live in an area where there are snakes, it’s a good idea to have a set of snake tongs on hand. Not only are they great for safely moving venomous snakes away from your garden or property, but they are also humane. But how to choose the snake tong ideal for your needs?

Well, first consider how long you want your pole to be, the sturdiness of the cables, and overall build quality. Make sure to try them out before making your purchase – some models are easier to use than others. Hopefully, this article has helped make your decision a little bit easier. Happy hunting!


References:

  1. https://tongs.com/blog/snake-tongs-a-great-tool-that-sometimes-gets-a-bad-rep/
  2. https://www.hixmagazine.com/best-snake-tongs-for-handling-snakes/
  3. https://www.mysnakepet.com/snake-hooks/
  4. https://www.snakeprotection.com/snake-hooks—tongs
  5. https://www.africansnakebiteinstitute.com/articles/guide_to_buying_snake_handling_equipment/
  6. https://www.peststrategies.com/product-reviews/snake-products/best-snake-tongs/
  7. https://www.tomsbirdfeeders.com/10-Steps-to-Safely-Handling-Venomous-Snakes-_ep_61-1.html
  8. https://www.sniffoutdoors.com/best-snake-tongs/