I would not go around free handling them but most of the hots I have kept have calmed down a little. When we got our first copperhead about 2 years ago she struck at everything. Especially when you walked past her cage. But after a while she has stopped. I can not even remember the last time she struck out other then feeding time. Our cobra has also calmed down alot she doesnt even really hood up anymore unless your in her enclosure. She does not like it when you have to refill her water bowl.