Barbecue Tongs

Long-handled spring tongs used for turning and moving food on a grill, a fixture of American backyard barbecue culture and typically longer than general kitchen tongs to keep hands well clear of direct heat.

Material & Construction

Stamped or forged steel with a spring hinge, notably longer in the arms than standard kitchen tongs, sometimes with locking mechanisms for storage.

Traditional Uses

Turning steaks, burgers, and other food on a hot grill, and repositioning coals or wood in charcoal and wood-fired setups.

Modern Availability / Equivalents

Standard kitchen tongs work at smaller scale but lack the length needed to keep hands safely clear of a hot grill's direct heat.

Care & Maintenance

Hand-wash and dry to prevent rust; check the spring hinge periodically for stiffness from grease buildup.