New to BP Need help

Ok so I just picked up my ball python today from the pet store and one thing I noticed is when I was holding him at the store to check him out he didn't flicker his tongue but it was a nice specimen in great shape no drooling, no cloudy eyes, no mites and was really friendly for a baby crawling all over my arm and I wanted to know if its normal not to flick its tongue while holding it. But when I put him in his cage he finally started to flick his tongue but this may sound weird but his tongue seems kinda small and doesn't flicker out very far, now I could be just paranoid but I just want to make sure it isnt a ailment. HELP

yeah dude paranoia. nothin to worry about

Little snake = little tongue. :) As long as the snake's healthy, it's likely just fine and a bit of new snake owner nerves (we all go through it so don't worry about that). :) Remember to leave your new scaley buddy for a week to settle in properly.