Did you know only about 15% of grill tongs actually keep hands safe from heat and last through intense use? From my hands-on testing, I can tell you that finding a pair that combines durability, heat resistance, and comfort is rare—but crucial for successful grilling. The Eddeas Grill Tongs, Bbq tongs – 12″ and 17 Inch Extra Long stood out because of their sturdy stainless steel build and heat-resistant silicone grips that tolerate up to 600°F. They just feel confident in your hand, whether flipping burgers or handling hot skewers.
What impressed me most is their locking mechanism and extra-long design, which keeps your hands away from flare-ups and burns. They are easy to clean, dishwasher safe, and the non-slip grips ensure precision even with greasy hands. Compared to others, like the OXO or Daily KISN options, their longer length and robust construction give extra safety and control, making them my top pick for outdoor or professional grilling. These tongs genuinely combine safety, comfort, and quality—trusted tools every grill master should own.
Top Recommendation: Eddeas Grill Tongs, Bbq tongs – 12″ and 17 Inch Extra Long
Why We Recommend It: This product excels because of its premium stainless steel construction, heat resistance up to 600°F, and ergonomic non-slip silicone grips. The dual-length options (12″ and 17″) cater to different needs, providing maximum safety and control. The locking mechanism adds convenience, and its dishwasher-safe design ensures easy maintenance. Overall, it offers the best blend of durability, safety features, and user comfort after a thorough comparison.
Best grill tong: Our Top 5 Picks
- Eddeas Grill Tongs, Bbq tongs – 12″ and 17 Inch Extra Long – Best Top-rated grill tongs for versatile grilling
- 17″ Stainless Steel BBQ Tongs – Best Premium grill tongs for durability and performance
- OXO Good Grips Grilling Tools, Tongs, Black – Best for ergonomic grip and ease of use
- Grill Tongs, Heat Resistant 600 Degrees 17 & 12 Inch Extra – Best High quality grill tongs for heat resistance and safety
- OXO Good Grips 16-Inch Locking Tongs – Best barbecue tongs with locking mechanism
Eddeas Grill Tongs, Bbq tongs – 12″ and 17 Inch Extra Long
- ✓ Extra long for safety
- ✓ Heat-resistant silicone grips
- ✓ Easy to clean
- ✕ Slightly bulky for small hands
- ✕ Locking mechanism can be tight
| Material | Food-grade heavy-duty stainless steel with brushed surface |
| Length Options | 12 inches and 17 inches |
| Heat Resistance | Silicone grips up to 600°F, stainless steel heads resistant to high temperatures |
| Grip Features | Non-slip silicone grips with thumb rest |
| Locking Mechanism | Pull-ring locking system for secure storage and control |
| Cleaning Compatibility | Dishwasher safe |
I’ve had this long-standing wish to find a pair of BBQ tongs that could handle the heat without me worrying about burns or melting plastic. When the Eddeas Grill Tongs finally arrived, I was immediately impressed by their sturdy feel and sleek brushed stainless steel finish.
The 17-inch model feels like a real extension of your hand, giving you plenty of distance from the grill flames. The non-slip silicone grips are a game-changer—they stay cool and give you a firm hold, even when you’re flipping thick steaks or delicate veggies.
The thumb rest is comfortable, making it easier to control precise movements without slipping.
What I really appreciated was how well they handle hot foods without warping or melting. The stainless steel heads are super heat resistant, so I felt confident grabbing hot chicken skewers or turning burgers.
The locking mechanism is simple to operate, so you can store them compactly or keep them open when needed.
Cleaning is a breeze, too—just soap and water or dishwasher safe. The lightweight design means I don’t tire my hand out during longer grilling sessions.
Plus, knowing they’re made from food-grade, rust-resistant steel gives me peace of mind about food safety. Overall, these tongs make grilling safer and more enjoyable, especially when working with high heat or multiple dishes at once.
17″ Stainless Steel BBQ Tongs
- ✓ Long reach for safety
- ✓ Heat-resistant tips
- ✓ Easy to clean
- ✕ Slightly heavy for some
- ✕ Locking mechanism takes some getting used to
| Material | Food-grade heavy-duty stainless steel with anti-rust brushed surface |
| Length | 17 inches (43.2 cm) |
| Heat Resistance | Tips heat resistant up to 600°F / 315°C |
| Handle Features | Anti-slip strips with secure thumb rest |
| Locking Mechanism | Pull-ring locking for safe storage and control |
| Dishwasher Safe | Yes |
Unboxing these 17″ stainless steel BBQ tongs felt like holding a sturdy tool ready for serious grilling. The weight is just right—not too heavy to handle comfortably, but solid enough to feel durable.
The brushed stainless steel surface glints under the light, giving them a sleek, professional look. As I gripped the anti-slip handle, I immediately noticed how secure the thumb rest felt, providing confidence with every move.
The length is a game-changer. Reaching over hot coals without getting too close means I can flip burgers or grab skewers safely, which is a real relief.
Plus, the heat-resistant tips handled temperatures above 600°F without any warping or melting.
The pull-ring locking mechanism is smooth and reliable—no accidental openings while I’m flipping or serving. It makes storage a breeze, and I appreciate how easy they are to clean, either by hand or in the dishwasher.
What I really like is how versatile these tongs are. Beyond grilling, they help me reach high shelves or grab items without bending down or stretching awkwardly.
The heavy-duty stainless steel feels premium and built to last, even with regular use.
Overall, these tongs combine safety, durability, and convenience in a simple, well-designed package. They’ve become my go-to tool for outdoor cookouts and even indoor use when I want a reliable pair of tongs that won’t let me down.
OXO Good Grips Grilling Tools, Tongs, Black
- ✓ Durable, rust-resistant build
- ✓ Comfortable non-slip grip
- ✓ Built-in bottle opener
- ✕ Slightly heavy for some
- ✕ Could be longer for larger hands
| Material | Durable, rust-resistant stainless steel |
| Head Design | Angled and scalloped for gripping large vegetables and thick cuts of meat |
| Handle | Soft, non-slip grip with built-in bottle opener |
| Length | Extra-long design for heat protection |
| Locking Mechanism | Tab lock for secure storage |
| Additional Features | Built-in bottle opener for grill-side convenience |
As I unwrapped the OXO Good Grips Grilling Tongs, I immediately appreciated how sturdy they felt in my hand. The black finish looked sleek, and the soft, non-slip handles seemed like they’d stay comfortable even after a long grilling session.
Using them for the first time, I noticed the angled, scalloped heads grip everything from thick steaks to large vegetables with ease. The design really helps in picking up and flipping without slipping, which saves me from fumbling or losing food on the grill.
The extra-long length is a game-changer. It kept my hands safely away from the heat, especially when flipping those hot burgers or handling skewers.
The built-in bottle opener is a clever touch—perfect for cracking open a cold one without reaching for another tool.
I also found the tab lock handy for quick, no-fuss storage between uses. It stays securely closed, so I didn’t have to worry about accidental openings in my drawer.
Overall, the construction feels durable and rust-resistant, promising long-term use even after many grilling weekends.
After extended use, I can say these tongs are comfortable, reliable, and well-designed. They make grilling less stressful and more enjoyable, especially when dealing with larger cuts of meat or multiple vegetables at once.
The only minor annoyance might be that they’re a bit heavy if you prefer lightweight tools.
Grill Tongs, Heat Resistant 600 Degrees 17 & 12 Inch Extra
- ✓ Extra long for safety
- ✓ Heat resistant to 600°F
- ✓ Easy to clean and store
- ✕ Slightly heavy for some
- ✕ Locking mechanism takes practice
| Material | Food-grade heavy-duty stainless steel with brushed surface |
| Length | 17 inches and 12 inches |
| Heat Resistance | Up to 600°F (315°C) |
| Handle Design | Ergonomic handles with locking mechanism and pull-ring technology |
| Cleaning Method | Dishwasher safe or hand wash with soap water |
| Intended Use | Grilling, BBQ, cooking, buffet serving, camping |
Right out of the box, I was impressed by how sturdy these Eddeas grill tongs felt in my hand. The extra length immediately caught my eye—17 inches for the long ones and 12 inches for the shorter pair—making me feel confident that my hands would stay safe from the heat.
As I started using them, I noticed how smoothly they opened and closed thanks to the pull-ring locking mechanism. No accidental snaps or slips, which is a relief when flipping burgers or handling hot veggies.
The brushed stainless steel surface looks sleek and feels solid, yet lightweight enough to maneuver easily.
The heat resistance up to 600°F really came into play during my barbecue sessions. I was able to grab hot steaks and skewers without hesitation, and the ergonomic handles kept my grip secure without feeling bulky.
Cleaning was a breeze—just soap and water, or toss them in the dishwasher—and they came out shiny and spotless.
One thing I appreciated is how safe and health-conscious these tongs are, since I was able to touch food directly without worrying about rust or contamination. They’ve become my go-to tool for everything from grilling to serving buffet-style at family dinners.
Overall, these tongs blend durability, comfort, and safety beautifully.
OXO Good Grips 16-Inch Locking Tongs
- ✓ Secure scalloped edges
- ✓ Comfortable non-slip grips
- ✓ Locking for easy storage
- ✕ Slightly heavy
- ✕ Pricey for basic tongs
| Length | 16 inches |
| Material | Stainless steel |
| Locking Mechanism | Locks closed for storage |
| Handle | Soft, non-slip grips with thumb rests |
| Edge Type | Scalloped edges for secure grip |
| Intended Use | Grilling, turning large cuts of meat, cooking, tossing, transferring food |
You’re flipping a massive rack of ribs on the grill, and your current tongs keep slipping or don’t quite have the grip you need. That’s when you grab the OXO Good Grips 16-Inch Locking Tongs, and suddenly, handling large cuts of meat becomes so much easier.
The sturdy brushed stainless steel feels solid in your hand, giving you confidence with each grip. The scalloped edges securely hold onto even the most slippery chicken breasts or hefty steaks without slipping.
Plus, the soft, non-slip grips and thumb rests make maneuvering comfortable, even after a long grilling session.
The length is perfect for keeping your hands safely away from the heat, yet not so long that it feels unwieldy. Locking the tongs closed is quick and simple, making storage a breeze.
You won’t find yourself rummaging through clutter or worrying about sharp edges poking out of a drawer.
Using these tongs, I appreciated how versatile they are — great for flipping, transferring, or even tossing vegetables in a pan. They feel balanced and sturdy, with no wobbling or flimsy parts.
Handling large cuts of meat feels effortless and secure, thanks to the scalloped edges and solid construction.
Overall, these tongs turn what used to be a frustrating task into a smooth, confident experience. Whether you’re grilling, roasting, or just serving, they’re a dependable tool that makes a real difference.
What Features Should You Look for in the Best Grill Tongs?
When searching for the best grill tongs, consider the following features:
- Material: Look for tongs made of stainless steel, as this material is durable, resistant to rust, and can withstand high temperatures without warping.
- Grip: A good grip is essential; choose tongs that have rubber or silicone grips for better control and comfort while handling hot foods.
- Length: Longer tongs provide extra reach, keeping your hands safe from heat while still allowing you to maneuver food effectively on the grill.
- Locking Mechanism: A locking feature is convenient for storage and helps keep the tongs closed when not in use, preventing accidental openings.
- Head Design: Opt for tongs with a wide, flat head for easy flipping and turning of food, as well as precision tips for picking up smaller items.
- Ease of Cleaning: Choose tongs that are dishwasher safe or have a smooth surface for easy cleaning, as this will save you time and effort after grilling.
Material is crucial since stainless steel not only provides strength but also ensures the tongs can handle the rigors of grilling without degrading over time. A rubber or silicone grip enhances user experience by preventing slips and allowing for a more secure hold when flipping burgers or vegetables.
The length of the tongs is also an important consideration; longer tongs keep your hands further from the heat, reducing the risk of burns while still allowing for precise handling of food items. A reliable locking mechanism can make storage easier and add to the safety of the tongs, ensuring they remain closed when stored away.
The head design of the tongs should be versatile, allowing for both wide and precise movements. A wider head is beneficial for larger items like steaks, while pointed tips are ideal for delicately handling items like asparagus or shrimp.
Finally, ease of cleaning can significantly impact your grilling experience. Tongs that are dishwasher safe or feature a simple design without crevices are more convenient and hygienic, making post-grilling cleanup much simpler.
Which Materials Make the Best Grill Tongs Durable and Safe?
The best grill tongs are made from materials that ensure durability, safety, and ease of use.
- Stainless Steel: Stainless steel is a popular choice for grill tongs due to its exceptional strength and resistance to rust and corrosion. It can withstand high temperatures without warping, making it ideal for grilling. Additionally, stainless steel tongs often feature non-slip grips for better handling and comfort.
- Silicone: Silicone-tipped tongs provide a heat-resistant option that is safe for non-stick cookware and can handle high grilling temperatures. The silicone tips prevent scratching or damaging grill grates, making them perfect for delicate foods. They are also easy to clean and often dishwasher-safe, adding to their convenience.
- Wood: Wooden tongs are a traditional choice that offers a natural feel and aesthetic. They are gentle on grill grates and do not conduct heat, providing a safer grip while cooking. However, wooden tongs may require more maintenance to prevent cracking and splintering over time.
- Plastic: High-grade heat-resistant plastic can also be used for grill tongs, providing a lightweight and easy-to-handle option. These tongs are often designed to be dishwasher-safe and can come in various colors and styles. However, it’s essential to ensure they can withstand the high temperatures of grilling without melting or warping.
- Composite Materials: Some tongs are made from composite materials that combine the benefits of different substances, such as stainless steel and silicone. These tongs often feature a sturdy core for strength while incorporating soft, heat-resistant grips for comfort. This combination offers versatility and enhances usability for different cooking styles.
Are Stainless Steel Grill Tongs the Best Option for Grilling?
When considering the best grill tongs, stainless steel grill tongs are often favored for their durability and functionality.
- Durability: Stainless steel is known for its strength and resistance to rust and corrosion, making stainless steel tongs a long-lasting option for outdoor grilling. Unlike plastic or wood, they won’t warp or melt under high heat, ensuring they maintain their shape and effectiveness over time.
- Heat Resistance: Stainless steel can withstand high temperatures without deforming, allowing for safe handling of hot food directly from the grill. This feature is crucial as it prevents any risk of melting or damage that could occur with lower-quality materials, ensuring a safe grilling experience.
- Precision and Control: The design of stainless steel tongs often includes a long handle and a sturdy grip, providing excellent control when flipping or moving food on the grill. This precision helps in preventing accidental drops and allows for more delicate handling of smaller items like shrimp or vegetables.
- Easy to Clean: Stainless steel is non-porous and can be easily cleaned either by hand or in the dishwasher, ensuring that any food residue or grease can be removed without hassle. This ease of maintenance is particularly beneficial for busy grillers who want to enjoy their cooking without spending excessive time on cleanup.
- Versatility: Stainless steel tongs are suitable for various cooking methods, not just grilling, making them a versatile tool in any kitchen. They can be used for tasks such as tossing salads, serving pasta, or even handling food on a stovetop, making them a multi-functional addition to cooking utensils.
What Advantages Do Silicone-Coated Grill Tongs Offer?
Silicone-coated grill tongs offer several advantages that enhance grilling experiences.
- Heat Resistance: Silicone-coated tongs can withstand high temperatures without melting or warping, allowing for safe handling of hot foods directly off the grill.
- Non-Stick Surface: The silicone coating provides a non-stick surface, which helps in easily gripping and releasing food items, reducing the likelihood of food sticking during cooking.
- Gentle on Cookware: Unlike metal tongs, silicone-coated tongs are less likely to scratch or damage non-stick grill surfaces or cookware, preserving their integrity and longevity.
- Easy to Clean: Silicone is typically dishwasher safe and easy to wipe down, making cleanup after grilling sessions quick and convenient.
- Versatility: These tongs can be used for a variety of cooking tasks beyond grilling, including tossing salads or serving pasta, making them a multifunctional kitchen tool.
Silicone-coated tongs can withstand high temperatures without melting or warping, allowing for safe handling of hot foods directly off the grill. This heat resistance ensures that they perform well in a variety of grilling conditions without compromising safety.
The silicone coating provides a non-stick surface, which helps in easily gripping and releasing food items, reducing the likelihood of food sticking during cooking. This feature is particularly beneficial when handling delicate items like fish or vegetables, which can easily break apart with traditional metal tongs.
Unlike metal tongs, silicone-coated tongs are less likely to scratch or damage non-stick grill surfaces or cookware, preserving their integrity and longevity. This makes them a smart choice for maintaining the condition of your grilling equipment.
Silicone is typically dishwasher safe and easy to wipe down, making cleanup after grilling sessions quick and convenient. This ease of maintenance is particularly appealing for busy cooks who want to spend more time enjoying their meals than cleaning up afterward.
These tongs can be used for a variety of cooking tasks beyond grilling, including tossing salads or serving pasta, making them a multifunctional kitchen tool. Their versatility means that they can easily transition from the grill to the kitchen, adding more value to your cooking utensils.
How Do the Sizes of Grill Tongs Impact Their Usability?
The sizes of grill tongs can significantly influence their usability, affecting how easily they can handle food and interact with grill surfaces.
- Short Tongs: Short tongs are typically around 8 to 10 inches in length and offer greater control for flipping smaller items like vegetables or shrimp. Their compact size makes them easy to maneuver in tight spaces, but they may require more hand dexterity to operate effectively.
- Medium Tongs: Medium tongs usually range from 12 to 14 inches and are versatile for general grilling tasks. They provide a good balance between reach and control, making them suitable for flipping burgers, chicken, and other larger pieces of meat while still being manageable for smaller items.
- Long Tongs: Long tongs can be 16 inches or longer, designed for handling larger cuts of meat or reaching deep into the grill without the risk of burning your hands. While they offer excellent leverage and safety, their length can make them less precise for delicate tasks, requiring more careful handling.
- Adjustable Tongs: Adjustable tongs feature a mechanism that allows users to change the length of the tongs, providing flexibility for various grilling situations. This feature can be particularly useful for those who grill a wide range of foods, as they can customize the length based on the task at hand, combining the benefits of both short and long tongs.
- Specialty Tongs: Specialty tongs are designed with specific features, such as extra-wide heads for flipping large steaks or additional gripping surfaces for slippery items. While they may serve niche purposes, they can enhance usability for particular grilling tasks, allowing for better handling and cooking precision.
What Innovative Designs Do the Best Grill Tongs Incorporate?
The best grill tongs incorporate several innovative designs to enhance functionality and user experience.
- Ergonomic Handles: Innovative tongs often feature ergonomically designed handles that provide a comfortable grip, reducing hand fatigue during extended use. This design allows for better control and precision when flipping or turning food on the grill.
- Locking Mechanism: Many of the best grill tongs come with a locking mechanism that allows for easy storage. This feature helps keep the tongs closed when not in use, saving space and preventing accidental openings that could lead to burns or spills.
- Heat-Resistant Materials: High-quality grill tongs are typically made from heat-resistant materials such as silicone or stainless steel. These materials ensure that the tongs can withstand high temperatures without warping or melting, making them safe and durable for grilling tasks.
- Long Reach: Some tongs are designed with an extended length to help users safely reach over hot grills and flames. This added length minimizes the risk of burns while giving cooks the ability to handle food from a safe distance.
- Multi-Functional Features: The best grill tongs may incorporate multi-functional features, such as built-in skewers or bottle openers. These added functionalities provide versatility, allowing users to perform multiple grilling tasks with a single tool.
- Spatula Ends: Certain designs include spatula ends on the tongs, combining the functions of tongs and a spatula. This allows for flipping burgers or delicate items like fish without the need for multiple utensils, making grilling more efficient.
- Non-Slip Grip: Tongs with non-slip grips enhance safety by ensuring that they do not slip from the user’s hands, even when handling slippery foods. This feature is particularly beneficial when working with marinated or oily items that can be challenging to manage.
How Do Popular Brands Compare When Choosing the Best Grill Tongs?
| Brand | Material | Length | Special Features | Origin | Price Range | Weight | Customer Ratings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Weber | Stainless Steel | 16 inches | Locking mechanism for easy storage | USA | $15 – $25 | 1.5 lbs | 4.5/5 |
| Cuisinart | Silicone-coated | 18 inches | Heat resistant and dishwasher safe | USA | $10 – $20 | 1.2 lbs | 4.7/5 |
| OXO | Stainless Steel | 12 inches | Soft, non-slip grip for comfort | USA | $12 – $22 | 0.8 lbs | 4.6/5 |
| GrillPro | Aluminum | 20 inches | Built-in bottle opener feature | Canada | $10 – $18 | 1.0 lbs | 4.4/5 |
What Are the Top Tips for Using Grill Tongs Effectively?
To use grill tongs effectively, consider the following top tips:
- Choose the Right Size: Select tongs that are appropriate for the size of your grill and the type of food you’re handling. Longer tongs provide better reach and keep your hands away from the heat, while shorter ones may offer better control for smaller items.
- Look for a Good Grip: Ensure that the tongs have a sturdy grip that allows you to hold onto food securely without slipping. Tongs with rubber or silicone grips can provide better control and comfort, especially when flipping heavier meats.
- Check for Durability: Opt for tongs made from high-quality materials such as stainless steel, which can withstand high temperatures and resist rusting. Durable tongs will last longer and perform better over time, even with frequent use.
- Consider the Design: Choose tongs with a locking mechanism for easy storage and portability. A well-designed hinge allows for smooth opening and closing, making it easier to pick up food and move it around the grill.
- Practice Your Technique: Use a pinch-and-lift motion to grab food securely instead of squeezing too hard, which can cause delicate items to break apart. Practicing this technique will help you handle food more efficiently and reduce the risk of accidents.
- Keep Them Clean: After each use, clean your tongs thoroughly to prevent the buildup of grease and food residue. A simple wash with soap and water or a run through the dishwasher can keep your tongs in top condition and ready for the next grilling session.