Tired of clumsy flipping and dropped food? Learn why the right BBQ tongs are the unsung hero of any pitmaster’s toolkit — and how to choose the perfect pair.
Don’t Underestimate the Power of Great Tongs
If you’ve ever tried to flip ribs with a fork or pick up chicken wings with cheap tongs that bend under pressure, you know how quickly a cookout can go from smooth to stressful. BBQ tongs are one of those tools you don’t think about — until you’re using a bad pair.
The right set of tongs gives you total control. They’re strong enough to grab a whole rack of ribs, long enough to keep your hands safe from the heat, and precise enough to flip shrimp without flinging them into the fire.
Let’s break down what makes BBQ tongs essential and how to pick the ones that earn a permanent spot on your grill station.
Key Features That Matter
1. Length Matters
The ideal BBQ tongs should be 16 to 18 inches long. This keeps your hands far enough from the heat while giving you plenty of reach across a hot grill.
2. Grip and Handle
Silicone grips are a game-changer. They keep your hands comfortable and secure, even when you’re flipping greasy or saucy meats. Avoid thin, all-metal tongs that can get slippery or too hot to handle.
3. Spring Tension and Control
Too stiff, and your hands get tired. Too loose, and you drop your food. High-quality tongs have smooth, balanced tension so you stay in control with minimal effort.
4. Locking Mechanism
A solid pair of tongs should have a lock at the base for easy storage. It also keeps the arms from flaring out when you’re not using them, saving drawer space and sanity.
5. Scalloped Edges or Grippers
The tips of your tongs should be shaped to grab food securely. Scalloped edges are great for gripping steaks or veggies, while silicone-tipped ones are gentler on delicate foods like fish.
Pro Tips for Using BBQ Tongs
- Use one pair for raw meat and another for cooked food to avoid cross-contamination.
- Don’t use your tongs to poke or stab—that lets precious juices escape.
- Clean them after every cook to keep grease buildup from weakening the spring or attracting rust.
- Keep a backup pair handy in case one goes down mid-session. Better safe than scrambling.
Our Pick: The Must-Have BBQ Tongs
After testing dozens of models and reviewing what real pitmasters use, our top pick is the OXO Good Grips 16-Inch Locking Tongs with Silicone Heads. They’re durable, long enough for safety, and the non-slip grip is unbeatable. Perfect tension, dishwasher safe, and they won’t scratch nonstick grill grates.
Final Thoughts
Tongs may not be as flashy as a new smoker or high-tech thermometer, but they’re just as important. The right pair turns you from a backyard burner into a barbecue boss. If you’re still using short kitchen tongs or that old pair from five years ago, it’s time to upgrade.
