If he's striking and coiling it sounds more like a feeding response than defensive behavior. Let's start with the basics. What are the temps and humidity in his enclosure and how are you measuring them? Is your heat source controlled by a thermostat? How much does he weigh and how much / how often are you feeding him? Kings can be a little nippy and flighty when they're young but most of them grow out of it. Make sure your husbandry is dialed in and start with short, gentle, consistent handling sessions for a few minutes at a time until he settles down. You can always use a glove or snake hook if it helps. I think if you continue to work with him he should come around. Best wishes and keep us posted.
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