Two-claw log tongs any good?

[sushan]

Anyone using the 2-claw type? I mostly lift smaller logs for milling and splitting.
I noticed Amazon and GARVEE both have 2-claw log lifting tongs — wondering if they stay steady or tend to twist under load.

 

[jkeys]

It all depends on the size and shape of the log, how you grab it, how good of a bite the tong's teeth get, etc. I use one similar to what you have shown and it's been ok, but not fool proof.

 

[CalG]

I use these

https://www.tractorsupply.com/tsc/product/timber-tuff-25-in-swivel-grab-skidding-tongs-3990181?crmid=2044147544&utm_source=google&utm_medium=pmax&utm_campaign=tsc0_sea_tsc_cat_search_sch_us_cvr&utm_content=sku_na&adtype=pla&campaignid=22858345352&device=c&product_channel=local&product_id=3990181&store_code=1770&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=22862191825&gclid=EAIaIQobChMI15jiwcjbkAMVJ1z_AR31_SRYEAQYBSABEgL7OfD_BwE

For LIFTING big rounds and logs with the FEL while working up firewood.

They are no good at all for dragging logs with only a chain, as when the log rolls and the tongs go under or sidewise, the tongs will get bent or twisted.

If one had some sort of boom to lift the log up behind the tractor, the tongs are faster than a choker to hook up.

 

[Thomas]

I have the old style and happy with it...better than trying get chain wrap round log.

 

[SteveD55]

I use one for dragging and lifting long logs onto blocks to make it easier to cut to firewood length before splitting. It works good for me.

 

[eco88]

Get the ones with 4 claws.
I got the 2 claw ones first, but they were useless. Kept twisting and sliding and logs kept slipping out.
Got the cheap vevor with 4 claws from Amazon. It's 100 times better and more stable, and I dont lose logs now.
I can pick up logs without having to get off the tractor with them too.

2 claw sits now in the garage. Not using it at all

 

[CalG]

When I use the tongs for lifting, I make sure to grab onto the round or log ABOVE center. (not like the image above with the tong hooks UNDER the log.)
By lifting from above center, the work will not try to roll out on it's own.

Same with dragging when it must be done. I try to figure how the log will ride, and then set the tong spikes "above center".

Turning corners can upset the tongs when the log changes orientation however.

 

[alexinPA]

2 claws are good for dragging. For lifting I prefer 4 claws. In either case you have to get off the tractor to release.

 

[Mudfarmer]

Tongs are just another implement in the toolbox. Best for dragging. Don't count on them overhead. Don't leave the choker at home though. They work fine on right size logs, not at all if the log is too small or too large. Bottom line - don't spend too much money on tongs, but you'll be glad to have them from time to time.