Snake Handling: Hooks and tongs

I have decided to purchase some handling equipment so when I am out feild herping I can avoid reaching down and grabbing everything...and I can get stuff that I won't usually reach down and grab :D. What type of equipment would you field herpers and keepers recommend for dealing with more aggressive snakes? I have been shopping at midwesttongs.com because I was told they were the best. Now I can't decide if I should get some tongs or a hook. What is the difference as far as handling advantages and dissadvantages? I was thinking a 40 in. reach, so that I could handle some of the larger 'mean' local snakes (i.e. coachwhips). I have never used either hooks or tongs before....just kinda grabbed w/ the hand or avoided all together....so I am just lookin' for some input and advice. Thanks :)

Well, I use hooks for my big or aggressive snakes. I find it to be quite handy. I have no experience with tongs though.

i think hooks are better for non venomous snakes while tongs would be better if you are going after hots in the field. never tried field herping but thats the way i would do it.

Hooks work well for any non venomous snake, I hook train any snake I have that will get over 6' long from the time its young this way it get used to the idea that the hook means its coming out and food isnt comming in.

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Originally Posted by Shelby

Well, I use hooks for my big or aggressive snakes. I find it to be quite handy. I have no experience with tongs though.

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Same boat. I wont even crack the female fuscus' tupperware without one - she's got a healthy lunge.

Yeah.. lol. I mainly use it for my big dumerils, because I don't really know her yet. She's proving to be a good girl though. Doesn't hurt to stroke them with the hook before grabbing them, even if they're tame. Just makes sure they aren't startled.

So if I want to mess with something venomous.....then no hook?

I usually stay clear of venomous snakes....but I would not mind the ability to handle if needed.

I dont know how much they cost. But if they are not too expensive get both and find out wich you like better.

i see pros using hooks for hots all the time on tv. hehe. i guess you have to have super dooper confidence and know what you are doing to do that. i personally would never own a hot but if i have to handle one, the tong would be the first thing i grab.

You can get an awesome hook here: http://www.ace-cap.com/

They also sell hemostats, tweezers, etc. I have held the polycarbonate hooks, and they are incredibly light for how strong they are. I was very impressed. They were also created by a woman, so go figure ;)

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Originally Posted by SatanicIntention

You can get an awesome hook here: http://www.ace-cap.com/

They also sell hemostats, tweezers, etc. I have held the polycarbonate hooks, and they are incredibly light for how strong they are. I was very impressed. They were also created by a woman, so go figure ;)

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Thanks Becky.....but I just order a hook from midwest a few minutes ago. Those were kinda pricey anyways ;)

ha ha....If I am not spending money on my snakes...then I am spending it on something else herp related....Today, I also picked up a copy of 'A Field Guide to Reptiles and Amphibians: Eastern and Central North America'....It is about time I get a herp book.....for snakes I have just been going by the 'snakes of louisiana' poster :)

hey daniel i'm in the same boat you are(after i caught a 4.5plus foot gopher snake that wanted to take my head off, LOL!) i ordered a hook from midwest tongs just like you. i have the guide to reptiles and amphibians of the southwest book, LOL!! to funny.

I wish there were some herps around here for me to find.. nothing but garters mostly.

Ah well, when I move to Texas, that problem will be gone. :D

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Originally Posted by Shelby

Ah well, when I move to Texas, that problem will be gone. :D

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Then it will just be rattlesnakes :)

yeah, lol. its good to live in california, espescially when you have 22acres in the mountains LOL! i ride my motorcycle down to the lake about 4 miles away and there is tons of skinks, snakes, etc.

Nothin wrong with rattlesnakes. :P I'm a pit viper fan.. what can I say.

There's lots of lizards and other random things there.. I'm so sick of living north. Ick.

how does a hook work? doesnt the snake slip right off it?

No.. it's shaped like a hook for a reason lol.

My hook is coated in rubber, so it's grippy, but it doesn't need to be. Snakes 'stick' to things.

When I deal with my big dumerils, I take the hook and stroke her back to let her know it's not dinner time, then I slip the hook under her neck and lift her forward half up toward me, then I can support her with my hands and put her wherever I need to.

I definately think you have the right idea. Field herping, and picking things up with your bare hands, is definately not smart. :)
Good luck!

Yeah, I've picked up wild garters with my hands, and.. phew! They sure stink!

Ich, I hear ya loud and clear! It is a smell that never wants to go away... I have gotten it on a shirt sleeve, and washed the sleeve, only to smell it again after the shirt was washed/dried!
Same with yer hands.. it takes years to wash away.

lol.. well I'm glad to say I don't smell like garter musk now.

My female cali king musked me, and it smelled like a dead lobster.

My hook just arrived....got a free t-shirt too :) It is nice and warm outside too so....be back in a bit... I'll bring the camera just incase I happen to spot something wondering around ;)

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Originally Posted by Shelby

lol.. well I'm glad to say I don't smell like garter musk now.

My female cali king musked me, and it smelled like a dead lobster.

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hahahaha now thats funny!!!

Glad to have amused you, Matt. :rolleyes: