first of all, congratulations

then, if the BP just doesnt let you pick him up..... just accept that you might get tagged, use one flat hand as a shield so that you only get some head bumps and approach the head with the flat hand, pick him up in the middle of the body with the other hand, and go through with it no matter what. and then just hold him for as long as it takes for him to calm down, and add 2 minutes, before you put him back.

but i can see how this may be a problem if there is some residual trace of fear of snakes left. if you can completely overcome that, and accept that you may get tagged, even the most defensive/agressive and feisty BP can be handled. its not fun and can be done. and if done right, they tend to get better with every correcly done handling session. of course its much easier with hatchlings and i can see how it may be a challenge with an adult.