Since I had to switch my bp over from live to f/t, I decided to get tongs the day I bought her. I wasn't sure what to expect feeding response-wise so I bought the 10-12" variety 'just in case' and they have worked wonderfully. To keep from flinching too much as my girl does strike pretty hard, I rest the edge of the tongs on the side of her tub to steady it but now that I'm getting used to it, I find I don't jump nearly as much. Also, I do what MrLang suggested and hold on, giving a little tug, to simulate a live prey item. It helps with the startle response since I know I can't just let go.