Knifemaking and Blacksmithing Tongs, 16" Z V-Bit Tongs Ideal for Beginner and Seasoned Blacksmiths & Bladesmiths, Z-Jaw Offset Knife Making Tongs Blacksmith Z Type Tongs with V-Bit Jaws

So, you can't grab larger billets with this to work into a thinner profile but for the size it's made for, great grip!

These are well built and look like they'll hold up for the long haul

I needed a pair quick to work on blades with, and decided to give these a chance. I was pleasantly surprised. These are sturdy, well made tongs. They have become my go to pair when doing blade work.

These tongs seem fine at first glance as they appear to be the standard run of the mill knife maker or blacksmith tongs. However, any real blacksmith will quickly notice after dunking them in water to cool them off that they were not made from mild steel but rather an alloy steel that cracks when cooled in water. Often times we need to cool our tongs off so as not to brand ourselves with them so having mild steel tongs is incredibly important. After one time using these, the reins broke from being quenched unlike the pair I bought that were made many years ago, specifically designed for real blacksmithing. Save your money for some antiques or steel to make your own.

The jaws of these are nice for gripping ¼ inch thick billets. The problem is if you try to hold a billet over about ¾ wide, you’d better be an NBA star, or just be holding the billet for someone else who is swinging the hammer! When I first open the package, I thought the handles seemed short. Then I realized the way they are designed, longer handles would just accentuate the design flaw of these tongs. Holding a billet with these tongs with normal sized hands, you’ll only be an inch or two from the billet. Instead of going through the hassle of a return, I will reshape and lengthen the handles. If you do not have the inclination or equipment to do modifications, avoid these tongs!

The alignment on the jaws were way off! Did not allow for a solid grip!

I usually build my own tongs but needed something like this and was feeling lazy. These tongs work great and exactly as intended.

Quality, well made, strong. Will last many lifetimes if cared for...a heritage tool.