Achieving optimal heat control and food manipulation on the grill hinges on the quality of your grilling implements. Among these, the humble yet critical BBQ tongs stand out as indispensable tools for any pitmaster.
From precisely turning delicate fish to confidently gripping hefty roasts, the right pair of tongs offers superior leverage and dexterity. Selecting the best BBQ tongs involves considering ergonomic design for comfort during extended cooking sessions, robust materials like stainless steel for durability and heat resistance, and innovative locking mechanisms for convenient storage. Whether you’re searing steaks or managing charcoal, the performance of your tongs directly impacts your grilling success, making the search for top-tier BBQ tongs a worthwhile endeavor.
Master Your Grill Game: Top Tongs Unveiled!
1. Traeger Grills BAC790 Stainless Steel BBQ Tongs Dishwasher Safe Grill
Elevate your grilling experience with the Traeger Grills BAC790 Stainless Steel BBQ Tongs. Designed for the discerning pitmaster, these
Crafted for durability and ease of use, they are the ultimate companion for searing steaks, flipping burgers, or managing delicate seafood on any grill.
Constructed from robust stainless steel, these Traeger BBQ tongs are built to withstand the rigors of frequent outdoor cooking. The integrated locking mechanism ensures they stay securely closed for convenient storage, while the strong, comfortable handle provides a firm grip, keeping your hands safely away from intense heat during extended grilling sessions. Their generous
Their generous 5-inch length makes them ideal for managing larger cuts of meat and maintaining a safe distance from open flames.
Pros
- Exceptional Durability: Forged from high-quality stainless steel, these bbq grilling tools promise longevity and resistance to rust and warping, ensuring they remain a staple in your grilling arsenal for years to come.
- Enhanced Safety & Control: The 16.5-inch length is meticulously chosen to protect your hands from high heat, while the sturdy construction offers excellent leverage for precise food manipulation, making them superior barbecue tongs for any grilling task.
- Unmatched Convenience: A user-friendly locking mechanism secures the tongs when not in use, simplifying storage and preventing accidental opening. Additionally, the integrated hanging loop allows for easy access during and after your cookout.
- Effortless Cleanup: Designed for modern convenience, these dishwasher-safe barbecue utensils make post-grill cleanup a breeze, saving you valuable time and effort.
Cons
- While the 16.5-inch length offers great heat protection, some users might prefer slightly longer tongs for very large grills or exceptionally high heat applications.
For anyone seeking reliable, high-performance grilling accessories, the Traeger Grills BAC790 Stainless Steel BBQ Tongs stand out. Their combination of durable materials, thoughtful design, and practical features makes them an indispensable tool for achieving perfectly grilled food every time.
2. Weber Precision Tongs & Spatula Grilling Tool Set – Stainless
Elevate your grilling experience with the Weber Precision Tongs & Spatula Set. Engineered for unparalleled control and exceptional food handling, this 2-piece set offers superior maneuverability for everything from delicate fish to thick steaks.
Crafted from durable, high-quality stainless steel, this Weber grilling tool set is built to withstand the heat of any barbecue. The set includes precision grill tongs and a versatile spatula, both featuring soft-touch, non-slip handles for maximum comfort and safety. Enjoy effortless cleanup as both pieces are completely dishwasher safe, ensuring your grilling accessories are always ready for your next cookout.
Pros
- Precision Handling: The 3-sided beveled edge design on the tongs allows for incredibly easy food approach and precise flipping capabilities, minimizing the risk of dropped food.
- Effortless Operation: Featuring hands-free locking tongs, this set ensures simple one-handed operation and compact storage, making it ideal for grilling in any space.
- Durable and Comfortable: Constructed with robust stainless steel and ergonomic, soft-touch handles, these tools offer a non-slip grip for enhanced safety and long-lasting performance.
- Easy Maintenance: Both the tongs and spatula are dishwasher safe, simplifying the cleaning process after every barbecue session.
- Convenient Storage: A built-in metal loop on each tool allows for easy hanging storage, keeping your grilling station organized.
- Reliable Investment: Backed by a 2-year warranty, this Weber set provides peace of mind and assurance of quality for your best barbecue tongs collection.
Cons
- As this is a 2-piece set, additional specialized grilling utensils might be needed for extremely varied cooking tasks beyond basic flipping and gripping.
For anyone seeking the best BBQ tongs and accompanying spatula, this Weber Precision Grilling Tool Set is an outstanding choice. It delivers on precision, durability, and user-friendly design, making it an essential addition to your outdoor cooking arsenal for achieving perfectly grilled meals every time.
3. OXO Outdoor Grilling Turner and Tongs Set
Elevate your grilling experience with the OXO Outdoor Grilling Turner and Tongs Set, designed for precision and durability. This essential barbecue toolset ensures you have the right equipment for flipping burgers, turning steaks, and serving your favorite grilled masterpieces with confidence.
It’s the perfect companion for any backyard chef.
Crafted from robust stainless steel, the OXO Grilling Turner boasts a wide, beveled head that smoothly glides under food, making flipping delicate items or hefty burgers effortless. The turner’s innovative double-bend design offers superior leverage for lifting, while the non-slip grips on both utensils provide a secure and comfortable hold, even in challenging grilling conditions. This ideal grilling accessory is a must-have for any outdoor cooking enthusiast.
Pros
- Effortless Flipping & Lifting: The turner’s wide, beveled head and double-bend design enable seamless sliding under food and provide excellent leverage for easy manipulation of even large cuts of meat.
- Secure & Comfortable Handling: Both the turner and tongs feature non-slip grips, ensuring a firm and comfortable hold, crucial for precise control when working over a hot grill.
- Durable Stainless Steel Construction: Built with high-quality stainless steel, these grilling tools are designed to withstand the rigors of frequent outdoor cooking and resist corrosion.
- Convenient Storage: A built-in hanging ring on both the turner and tongs allows for easy storage and keeps your grilling station organized and accessible.
Cons
- While generally well-received, some users might find the size of the tongs slightly less versatile for very small items if they prefer a more delicate approach to grilling.
The OXO Outdoor Grilling Turner and Tongs Set offers a superior combination of functionality and comfort for any barbecue aficionado. With their robust build and user-friendly design, these essential barbecue tools provide the control and confidence needed for perfect grilling results every time, making them an indispensable addition to your outdoor cooking arsenal.
4. 17-Inch Grill Tongs, Heavy Duty 304 Stainless Steel BBQ Tongs,
Elevate your grilling experience with the Boxiki Kitchen 17-Inch Grill Tongs. Crafted for both performance and style, these heavy-duty stainless steel tongs feature a premium walnut handle, offering superior comfort and control for turning steaks, flipping burgers, and serving your culinary creations with precision.
Constructed from robust 304 stainless steel, these long grilling tongs are built to withstand the heat and rigors of outdoor cooking. The ergonomic walnut grip ensures a comfortable, slip-resistant hold, making them ideal bbq tongs for managing food safely on the grill, smoker, or even in a campfire.
Pros
- Ergonomic Walnut Handle: Provides a comfortable, secure grip for enhanced control and safety while handling hot foods, making them excellent kitchen tongs for various cooking tasks beyond grilling.
- Extended 17-Inch Reach: Safely keeps your hands far from intense heat and flare-ups, perfect for deep grills, smokers, and ensuring a safer outdoor grilling adventure.
- Durable 304 Stainless Steel: Offers exceptional strength, rust resistance, and longevity, ensuring these heavy-duty grill tongs will be a reliable kitchen tool for years of BBQ entertaining.
- Serrated, Slotted Tips: The “tongs with teeth” design securely grips food items like ribs and vegetables, while the slots allow excess grease and liquids to drain efficiently for cleaner serving.
- Convenient Storage Features: A pull-lock mechanism keeps the tongs closed for compact storage, and an integrated hanging loop allows for easy access next to your grill or in your kitchen.
Cons
- Hand Wash Recommended for Handle: To preserve the beauty and integrity of the natural walnut handle, hand washing is advised, which is a minor inconvenience for some users seeking dishwasher-safe kitchen gadgets.
These versatile 17-inch grill tongs are more than just an accessory for your backyard barbecue; they are a substantial tool that brings precision and safety to your cooking. Whether you’re searing steaks on the grates or assembling a salad at the table, these professional-grade, long-handled tongs offer unmatched utility for any home chef.
5. Grill Tongs 24-Inch Super Long Extra Heavy Duty for Grilling
Master your grill with the Grille Perfect 24-Inch Super Long Grill Tongs, designed for ultimate safety and control. Say goodbye to burnt knuckles and hello to perfectly cooked food, whether you’re a seasoned pitmaster or a backyard grilling enthusiast. These heavy-duty tongs are your essential BBQ companion for any cookout.
Engineered for performance, these extra-long barbecue tongs offer a substantial 24-inch reach, keeping you safely away from intense heat. Their dual-sided design provides versatile functionality, with textured teeth for handling large meats and a smooth edge for delicate items, ensuring every piece is cooked to perfection. Crafted from robust 1mm thick stainless steel, they withstand high temperatures without bending or warping, unlike lesser quality grilling tools.
Crafted from robust 1mm thick stainless steel, they withstand high temperatures without bending or warping, unlike lesser quality grilling tools.
Pros
- Unmatched Safety: The 24-inch super long design provides a generous reach, significantly reducing the risk of burns from grill flames or hot surfaces, making them ideal for deep grilling.
- Versatile Grilling Action: Features a unique dual-sided head; one side with grippy teeth for confidently flipping large steaks or sausages, and a smooth side perfect for gently turning shrimp, vegetables, or bread without crushing them.
- Durable Construction for Longevity: Built from thick 1/32 inch (1mm) stainless steel, these sturdy metal tongs are resistant to high heat and won’t melt or warp. The robust C-shape frame ensures they remain strong and stable, even when handling heavy cuts of meat.
- Enhanced Grip and Comfort: The three-sided, 5-inch silicone handle offers a textured, non-slip grip for superior control and insulation against heat. A thumb groove further enhances gripping power, essential for managing heavier items like brisket or roasts.
- Convenient Storage: Equipped with a push-pull locking ring, these long tongs securely close for compact and easy storage alongside other barbecue accessories and grilling equipment.
Cons
- While ideal for larger grills and pits, the 24-inch length might feel slightly unwieldy for very small or indoor grill setups.
Elevate your outdoor cooking experience with the Grille Perfect 24-Inch BBQ Tongs. These are more than just barbecue tongs; they are a commitment to safer, more controlled grilling.
6. BBQ-AID Pro BBQ Tongs for Grill – 17″ Professional Grade
Elevate your grilling experience with the BBQ-AID Pro BBQ Tongs, expertly crafted for discerning outdoor chefs. These professional-grade 17 tongs offer superior control and safety, transforming your backyard BBQs into culinary triumphs. Discover why they’re a must-have for any grill master seeking style and substance.
Discover why they’re a must-have for any grill master seeking style and substance.
Engineered from medical-grade stainless steel, these grill tongs are built for durability and safe food handling, ensuring they remain a reliable part of your barbecue arsenal for years to come. The robust construction and comfortable wood handle design provide an excellent balance of performance and aesthetic appeal, making them ideal for all your grilling tasks.
Pros
- Professional Grade & Stylish Design: Enhance your grilling performance and presentation with these top-tier, beautifully designed cooking tongs that feel as good as they look in your hand.
- Medical-Grade Stainless Steel Construction: Resilient against discoloration and pitting, these kitchen tongs guarantee safe food contact and exceptional longevity, offering reliable service for countless meals.
- Durable & Ergonomic: Built with a powerful stainless steel core and a solid wood handle, these tongs resist bending and breaking, providing a comfortable and secure grip for intensive use.
- Extended Reach for Safety: The generous 17-inch length, combined with the comfortable wood handle, keeps your hands safely away from the grill’s heat, allowing for confident flipping and maneuvering of food.
- Effortless Dishwasher Cleanup: Simply toss these outdoor grill tongs in the dishwasher after use; they are designed to withstand vigorous cleaning without warping or losing their pristine finish.
Cons
- While the wood handle offers comfort, users sensitive to moisture retention might prefer fully metal tongs for environments with heavy humidity or prolonged outdoor storage.
The BBQ-AID Pro BBQ Tongs are the ultimate tool for anyone passionate about grilling, offering unparalleled quality, safety, and convenience. Whether you’re searing steaks, turning burgers, or serving corn on the cob, these professional grilling tongs will undoubtedly become your go-to accessory for every barbecue occasion.
7. Grill Tongs, 17 Inch Extra Long BBQ Tongs, Premium Stainless
Elevate your grilling experience with the KingTong 17 Inch Extra Long BBQ Tongs, designed for superior reach and control around the heat. These premium stainless steel tongs offer unparalleled safety and comfort, making them an indispensable tool for any outdoor chef or kitchen enthusiast.
Crafted from robust, food-grade stainless steel, these 17-inch grill tongs provide ample distance from cooking surfaces, ensuring your hands are protected from intense heat. The anti-slip, heat-resistant grip offers a secure hold, allowing for precise maneuvering of your favorite foods. Their durable construction and easy-to-use locking mechanism make these ideal for everything from backyard barbecues to buffet service.
Pros
- Extended Reach for Safety: The impressive 17-inch length keeps your hands safely away from high flames and hot surfaces, a crucial benefit for any grilling situation.
- Secure and Comfortable Grip: Featuring an anti-slip design with heat-resistant strips, these BBQ tongs provide a firm and comfortable hold, even in damp conditions, enhancing cooking precision.
- Durable, High-Quality Construction: Made from heavy-duty, food-grade stainless steel with an anti-rust brushed finish, these kitchen tongs are built to last and withstand high temperatures exceeding 600°F.
- Effortless Operation and Storage: The intuitive pull-ring locking mechanism ensures the tongs remain securely closed for storage or open for use, simplifying handling and keeping your kitchen organized.
- Simple Cleanup: Being dishwasher safe simplifies the post-grilling cleanup process, allowing more time to enjoy your culinary creations.
Cons
- The extended length, while a primary benefit for safety, may feel slightly unwieldy for very delicate tasks in confined kitchen spaces compared to shorter utility tongs.
These KingTong grill tongs are a premier choice for anyone seeking a reliable and safe tool for all their cooking and serving needs. Whether flipping burgers on the grill, serving a buffet spread, or even reaching for items, these long metal tongs offer exceptional functionality and lasting value for your kitchen and outdoor cooking arsenal.
8. GORILLA GRIP Stainless Steel Heat Resistant Kitchen Tongs for Cooking,
Elevate your grilling and cooking with the GORILLA GRIP Stainless Steel Kitchen Tongs. Designed for precision and durability, these heat-resistant tongs offer a superior grip for handling everything from delicate ingredients to hearty barbecue meats, ensuring a confident and enjoyable culinary experience every time.
Crafted from robust stainless steel and featuring innovative silicone scalloped edges, these cooking tongs provide a strong yet gentle hold on food. The scratch-resistant silicone heads protect your nonstick cookware, while the heat resistance up to 484°F makes them ideal for any stovetop or grill application.
Pros
- Unmatched Grasping Power: The unique silicone scalloped edges allow for a secure and precise grip on a wide variety of food items, from small garnishes to large grilled steaks.
- Cookware Protection: Gentle, heat-resistant silicone heads prevent scratching on delicate nonstick pans and pots, extending the life of your kitchenware.
- Comfortable and Secure Handling: Featuring a slip-resistant silicone grip and an ergonomic thumb rest, these grilling tongs ensure maximum control and reduce finger strain during extended use.
- Durable Stainless Steel Construction: Built with rust-resistant stainless steel, these food tongs are engineered for long-lasting performance, easily handling heavy items without bending.
- Convenient Storage Solution: The easy-pull lock mechanism allows for compact storage, fitting neatly into drawers, and a convenient hook is provided for hanging.
Cons
- While durable, the silicone heads could potentially show wear over a very extended period of extremely high-heat, frequent use, although they are rated for significant heat resistance.
For home cooks and grill masters seeking reliable barbecue tools, the GORILLA GRIP tongs are an excellent investment. Their blend of sturdy construction, thoughtful design, and user-friendly features makes them a standout choice for everyday kitchen tasks and outdoor cooking adventures.
9. Hotec Stainless Steel Kitchen Tongs, 16 Inch Extra Long Locking
Revolutionize your grilling and kitchen tasks with the Hotec Stainless Steel Kitchen Tongs. These extra-long, 16-inch tongs provide superior reach and control, making them an indispensable tool for safely handling hot foods from the grill to the table.
Crafted from food-grade stainless steel, these durable, heat-resistant, and rust-proof tongs are designed for longevity and effortless handling. The innovative pull-ring lock mechanism ensures secure storage and easy one-handed operation. Enjoy a comfortable, secure grip thanks to the ergonomic handle featuring silicone cushioning, keeping your hands protected from heat and sharp edges during use.
Enjoy a comfortable, secure grip thanks to the ergonomic handle featuring silicone cushioning, keeping your hands protected from heat and sharp edges during use. Dishwasher safe for easy cleanup.
Pros
- Extended Reach & Safety: The 16-inch length provides ample distance from heat sources, protecting your hands while flipping, turning, or serving food on the grill or in the kitchen.
- Durable & Hygienic Construction: Made from robust, food-grade stainless steel, these grilling tongs resist rust and corrosion, ensuring a hygienic surface for food preparation and long-lasting performance.
- Convenient Locking & Storage: The intuitive pull-ring locking system makes one-handed operation simple, allowing you to easily lock the cooking tongs for secure storage or unlock them for immediate use. A hanging loop adds further storage convenience.
- Comfortable & Secure Grip: The ergonomic handle design with silicone grips offers excellent thumb support and control, preventing slips and minimizing the risk of accidental burns.
- Versatile Kitchen & BBQ Tool: Ideal for a wide range of culinary tasks, these heavy-duty tongs excel at flipping burgers, turning fish, handling vegetables, serving salads, and much more, making them an essential part of your kitchen essentials and outdoor cooking gear.
Cons
- While the 16-inch length is a significant benefit for grilling, some users with very limited drawer or storage space might find them slightly bulkier than shorter alternatives.
The Hotec Stainless Steel Kitchen Tongs offer exceptional value for home cooks and grill masters seeking reliable, safe, and comfortable-to-use utensils. They are a superior choice for anyone looking to enhance their BBQ accessories collection or upgrade their everyday kitchen tools for safer and more efficient food handling.
10. OXO Outdoor Grilling Tongs
Elevate your grilling experience with the OXO Outdoor Grilling Tongs, designed for unparalleled performance and comfort. These essential barbecue tools offer superior grip and control, making them a must-have for any backyard chef looking for the best BBQ tongs.
Crafted for durability and rust resistance, these OXO grilling tongs boast angled and scalloped heads for securely grasping everything from delicate vegetables to thick steaks. The extended length and comfortable, non-slip handle ensure a safe and enjoyable cooking process, all while keeping you a safe distance from the heat.
Pros
- Exceptional Grip and Control: The angled, scalloped heads are engineered to firmly hold a wide variety of foods, from sizable vegetables to hefty cuts of meat, ensuring precise handling on the grill.
- Enhanced Safety and Comfort: The extra-long design provides a generous buffer zone, protecting your hands from intense heat. Combined with the soft, non-slip handle, these tongs offer superior comfort during extended grilling sessions.
- Convenient Built-in Features: A handy bottle opener is integrated directly into the tongs, adding extra utility for your outdoor cooking adventures. The clever locking tab ensures compact storage, keeping your grilling essentials neat and tidy.
- Durable, Rust-Resistant Construction: Built with high-quality materials, these grilling utensils are designed to withstand the elements and repeated use, maintaining their effectiveness and appearance over time.
Cons
- Potential for Oversized Storage: While the locking mechanism is convenient, some users might find the overall size of the tongs slightly cumbersome for very small storage spaces when locked.
For those seeking reliable and user-friendly barbecue tongs, the OXO Outdoor Grilling Tongs stand out. Their thoughtful design, robust construction, and practical features make them an indispensable tool for your next barbecue or cookout, delivering confidence with every flip and serve.
How to Select the Best BBQ Tongs
Grip and control features
Mastering your grill requires tools that offer both a secure grasp and fine maneuverability.
The way your cooking utensil feels in your hand and how it handles your food is paramount to a successful cookout. A comfortable, ergonomic grip prevents fatigue during long grilling sessions, while the overall design dictates your ability to control heat and food placement with precision.
Consider the operational mechanism: spring-loaded tongs offer effortless one-handed use, snapping shut for a consistent grip, whereas manual styles might provide a more deliberate, feel-based hold for those who prefer absolute tactile feedback. The ideal length is crucial for maintaining a safe distance from intense heat, protecting your hands from burns while still allowing for nuanced flips, especially with delicate items like fish or vegetables.
For convenient storage, look for integrated locking mechanisms that keep the tongs securely closed. A well-designed locking mechanism ensures they remain compact and won’t create clutter in your kitchen drawer or grill caddy, ready for the next time you fire up the coals.
Material and durability
The backbone of any reliable grilling implement is its construction and how well it stands up to the rigors of outdoor cooking.
Investing in quality materials ensures your grilling tool will be a consistent companion for countless cookouts, resisting the harsh elements and intense heat. This longevity translates to better value and fewer replacements over time.
Furthermore, its inherent resistance to rust and corrosion is paramount, especially after exposure to moisture and marinades, preventing unsightly and potentially unhygienic degradation.
Pay close attention to the gripping ends as well. Many superior options incorporate heat-resistant silicone or rubber tips.
Examining the overall build quality, such as sturdy rivets and seamless joins, indicates that the instrument is engineered for durability, promising consistent performance for years of enjoyable barbecuing.
Handle design and ergonomics
The way tongs feel and perform in your hand is paramount to a successful grilling experience.
Superior grip and control ensure you can confidently flip delicate fish or maneuver bulky roasts without fear of dropping food or burning yourself. Think about those moments when you’re reaching across a hot grill to turn burgers; a secure, nonslip grip prevents accidental slips, and adequate heat insulation keeps your hands safe from radiant heat. A well-designed handle, with an ergonomic shape and comfortable length, reduces fatigue during extended cooking sessions, allowing for effortless flipping, turning, and plating.
Look for features like textured grips for enhanced purchase, especially when dealing with greasy meats. The overall length of the handle plays a role in maintaining a safe distance from the heat source, while its contour should fit naturally in your palm for optimal dexterity. Materials that offer excellent heat resistance are crucial for protecting your fingers, and the balance of the tongs contributes significantly to their maneuverability, enabling precise movements and reducing strain on your wrist.
Cleaning and maintenance
Effortless post-grill cleanup significantly enhances the usability of your grilling utensils.
The ease with which you can maintain your grilling tools directly impacts your enjoyment of the entire barbecue experience. No one wants to spend excessive time scrubbing greasy implements after a long cooking session. Opting for items that are dishwasher-safe means you can simply load them in and let the machine do the work, freeing up your valuable time.
Beyond dishwasher compatibility, look for models constructed from smooth, non-porous materials like stainless steel, which resist food particle adhesion and prevent rust. A simple, streamlined design with minimal nooks and crannies also makes manual cleaning a breeze.
Furthermore, consider integrated storage solutions to keep your kitchen or grilling area tidy. Many high-quality tongs feature built-in hanging loops, allowing for convenient storage on a hook or pegboard, preventing them from cluttering drawers and keeping them readily accessible for your next cookout. This thoughtful design element contributes to a more organized and functional grilling setup.
Quick Best Bbq Tongs Buying Checklist
- Locking Mechanism: Ensure your tongs stay securely closed for easy storage.
- Optimal Length: Choose tongs long enough to keep your hands safely away from the heat.
- Grip Material: Look for non-slip handles for better control, even with greasy hands.
- Heat Resistance: Verify materials can withstand high grilling temperatures without melting or warping.
- Ease of Cleaning: Prioritize dishwasher-safe or easy-to-wipe-down designs for quick cleanup.
- Durability: Select sturdy construction, often stainless steel, for long-lasting use over many cookouts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Metal Bbq Tongs Safe For Non-Stick Grills?
Yes, as long as you use tongs with silicone or rubber-coated tips. This prevents scratching the non-stick surface.
What Is The Best Length For Bbq Tongs?
For most grilling, tongs between 12 and 16 inches offer a good balance of reach and control.
How Do I Clean Bbq Tongs Effectively?
Many stainless steel tongs are dishwasher safe. For manual cleaning, use warm, soapy water and a grill brush if needed.
Are Locking Tongs Better Than Non-Locking Ones?
Locking tongs are convenient for storage and preventing accidental opening. Non-locking tongs might offer slightly more flexibility during use for some users.
What Material Is Best For Long-Lasting Bbq Tongs?
High-quality stainless steel is generally the most durable and rust-resistant material for long-lasting BBQ tongs.
Final Words
Investing in the best BBQ tongs transforms your grilling experience, offering superior control and safety. With the right pair, flipping burgers, turning steaks, and managing delicate items becomes effortless. Elevate your backyard barbecues and confidently master your grill with a reliable set of tongs.