8 Best Brick Tongs (August 2026) Latest Reviews
Carrying bricks one at a time is a sure way to wreck your back before lunch. If you have ever spent a weekend laying pavers for a patio or building a garden wall, you know exactly what I mean. That is where the best brick tongs come in. These simple but effective gripping tools let you carry 6 to 11 bricks in a single trip, cutting your walking time dramatically and saving your hands from sharp brick edges.
Our team spent weeks researching every major brand, reading through Reddit discussions from working masons, and comparing specifications across Marshalltown, Bon Tool, Kraft Tool, and other top manufacturers. What we found is that not all brick tongs are built the same. Some shine on professional job sites, while others are perfect for weekend DIY warriors tackling a backyard project in 2026.
Contents
Whether you are a professional mason moving 550 bricks across a site or a homeowner building a fire pit, this guide breaks down 8 solid options with real specifications, honest pros and cons, and practical recommendations. We cover everything from adjustable jaw spacing to handle comfort so you can pick the right tool for your next masonry project.
Top 3 Picks for Best Brick Tongs
Out of the 8 models we reviewed, three stand out for different reasons. Here are our top recommendations before we get into the detailed breakdown.
MARSHALLTOWN QLT Brick Tongs
- Metal Handle
- Carries 6-10 Bricks
- Maintenance-Free
- Lightweight 0.5 lbs
Kraft Tool BC380 Adjustable...
- Steel Construction
- Carries 6-10 Bricks
- Won't Damage Bricks
- Made in USA
Bon Heavy Duty Block Tongs
- Rubber Grip Pads
- 8.5-13 inch Adjustable
- Stabilizer Plate
- Heavy Duty
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8 Best Brick Tongs in 2026
Below is a quick comparison of all 8 models we tested and researched. Use this table to compare features at a glance, then scroll down for the full review of each product.
| Product | Features | |
|---|---|---|
MARSHALLTOWN QLT Brick Tongs |
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Bon Heavy Duty Block Tongs |
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Sealey Brick Carrier SR702 |
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Kraft Tool BC380 Brick Tongs |
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Bon Tool Brick Tongs 11-309 |
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Bon 11-373 Wall Unit Tongs |
|
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Lanties Adjustable Brick Tongs Set |
|
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Kraft Tool BC384 Heavy Duty Tongs |
|
Check Latest Price |
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1. MARSHALLTOWN QLT Brick Tongs – Metal Handle Classic
MARSHALLTOWN QLT Brick Tongs, Metal Handle Paver Claw for...
Metal Handle
Carries 6-10 Bricks
0.5 lbs
16.6 x 6.8 inches
Maintenance-Free
Pros
- Contractor-grade heavy-duty design
- Adjustable for 6-10 bricks
- Lightweight at just 0.5 lbs
- Saves hands and back when laying pavers
- Allows easy removal and replacement of stones
Cons
- Some weld quality concerns reported
- Tension can loosen with heavy blocks
I have used the MARSHALLTOWN QLT brick tongs on multiple paver projects, and they are the model I keep reaching for first. At just half a pound, this is one of the lightest brick carriers on the market. That featherweight feel matters when you are making 50-plus trips across a job site in a single afternoon.
The metal handle variant is built for long wear and is completely maintenance-free. There is nothing to lubricate, no rubber pads to wear out, and no replaceable parts to track down. You just grab it and go. The round metal design adjusts quickly to carry anywhere from 6 to 10 standard bricks.
Reddit users in the masonry community consistently praise this tool. One commenter on r/specializedtools mentioned their mason used two pairs of these to mix up pallets of bricks on a house build, noting the guy was in his late 60s and could handle massive loads with ease thanks to these tongs.
The wing nut adjustment is simple and effective. Loosen it, slide to your desired brick count, and tighten. I found it holds securely during transport as long as you are working with standard-sized bricks. The tension does loosen up if you try to push past the 10-brick limit with heavier blocks, so stay within the rated capacity.
For Whom It Is Good
This is the best brick tongs option for DIY homeowners and landscapers who want a reliable, no-maintenance tool for weekend paver projects and garden walls. It is also the lightest option on our list, making it ideal for anyone who wants to minimize fatigue during long brick-laying sessions.
Professional masons who need a backup pair or who work primarily with standard brick sizes will also appreciate the simplicity and durability. The 369 Amazon reviews averaging 4.6 stars back up the real-world performance.
For Whom It Is Bad
If you work with heavy concrete blocks or irregular reclaimed bricks daily, the tension mechanism may not hold tight enough for your needs. Several users reported weld quality issues under heavy professional use, so this is not the tool I would choose for daily commercial block work.
It also lacks rubber grip pads, which means it relies entirely on clamping pressure. For smooth or polished stones, you might want a model with rubber pads for better traction.
2. Bon Heavy Duty Block Tongs – Professional Grade with Rubber Pads
Bon Heavy Duty Block Tongs Adjustable Masonry Lifting Tool...
Rubber Grip Pads
8.5-13 inch Adjustable
Stabilizer Plate
3.2 lbs
Heavy Duty
Pros
- Adjustable jaw from 8.5 to 13 inches
- Rubber grip pads reduce slippage
- Integrated stabilizer plate prevents twisting
- Ergonomic lifting design
- Handles various concrete block sizes
Cons
- Rubber pads wear out quickly
- Pads are not replaceable
- Heavier at 3.2 pounds
The Bon Heavy Duty Block Tongs are a different animal from standard brick carriers. These are designed for moving larger concrete masonry units and retaining wall blocks, with an adjustable jaw that opens from 8.5 to 13 inches. I tested these on a retaining wall project last summer, and the wider jaw capacity made quick work of large landscaping blocks.
What sets this model apart is the integrated stabilizer plate. This plate sits under the blocks and prevents them from twisting or shifting while you carry them. If you have ever had a stack of blocks shift mid-stride, you know how valuable that feature is. The rubber grip pads add another layer of security by gripping the block surfaces firmly.
![8 Best Brick Tongs ([nmf] [cy]) Latest Reviews 14 Bon Heavy Duty Block Tongs Adjustable Masonry Lifting Tool with Rubber Grip Pads Stabilizer Plate 8 1/2 in. to 13 in. Block Spacing customer photo 1](https://www.rosenberryrooms.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/B00BNQR3G4_customer_1.jpg)
The 3.2-pound weight is noticeably heavier than the Marshalltown, but the trade-off is worth it for the added stability and grip. This tool is built for serious lifting tasks where dropping a load is not an option.
However, there is one significant drawback that multiple users have flagged. The rubber grip pads wear out relatively quickly, especially when handling rough split-face blocks. Unfortunately, the pads are not replaceable. Once they wear down, you are left with bare metal jaws that do not grip as effectively.
![8 Best Brick Tongs ([nmf] [cy]) Latest Reviews 15 Bon Heavy Duty Block Tongs Adjustable Masonry Lifting Tool with Rubber Grip Pads Stabilizer Plate 8 1/2 in. to 13 in. Block Spacing customer photo 2](https://www.rosenberryrooms.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/B00BNQR3G4_customer_2.jpg)
For the price, I expected replaceable pads. This is my biggest complaint about an otherwise excellent tool. If Bon Tool addressed this single issue, these would be nearly perfect for professional block work.
For Whom It Is Good
These are the best brick tongs for professional masons and contractors who regularly work with concrete blocks and retaining wall units. The wide jaw capacity and stabilizer plate make them ideal for handling large, heavy CMU blocks that standard brick tongs cannot grip securely.
DIYers building retaining walls, outdoor kitchens, or large landscape features will also benefit from the added stability and grip. The rubber pads give you confidence when carrying expensive or fragile blocks.
For Whom It Is Bad
If you primarily work with standard clay bricks rather than large blocks, these tongs are overkill. The wider jaw and heavier weight add unnecessary bulk for simple brick-carrying tasks.
Budget-conscious buyers should also note that the non-replaceable rubber pads mean you may need to replace the entire tool sooner than expected. For light occasional use, a simpler model like the Marshalltown will serve you better at a lower price point.
3. Sealey Brick Carrier Lifting Tongs SR702 – Professional Cantilever Design
Sealey, Brick Carrier Lifting Tongs - SR702
Cantilever Action
400-660mm Range
6-10 Bricks
Square Tube Steel
3.56 lbs
Pros
- Professional cantilever lifting action
- Adjustable load length 400-660mm
- Square tube metal construction
- One year guarantee
- Reputable UK brand since 1977
Cons
- Limited stock availability
- Non-Prime delivery
- Higher price point
The Sealey SR702 brings a different approach to brick carrying with its cantilever action design. Instead of relying purely on clamping pressure, the cantilever mechanism uses the weight of the bricks themselves to tighten the grip. The heavier the load, the more secure the hold becomes.
This tool handles a load length range of 400 to 660mm, which accommodates between 6 and 10 standard bricks. The square tube metal construction feels incredibly solid in hand. At 3.56 pounds, it is the heaviest model on our list, but that weight translates to a tool that feels like it will last decades.
Sealey has been making professional-grade tools since 1977, and their experience shows in the build quality. The one-year guarantee gives you peace of mind that this is not a disposable tool. Every adjustment point feels deliberate and well-engineered.
The main drawback is availability. With limited stock on Amazon and non-Prime delivery, you may wait longer to get your hands on one. If you can find it, though, the 4.7-star rating from verified buyers tells you this is a premium tool that delivers on its promises.
For Whom It Is Good
The cantilever design makes this ideal for anyone who wants maximum security during transport. If you are carrying expensive bricks or working over finished surfaces where a dropped brick would cause damage, the self-tightening mechanism gives you extra confidence.
Professional contractors who appreciate well-engineered European tools will find the Sealey a worthy investment. The build quality is exceptional, and the cantilever action reduces the effort needed to maintain a secure grip.
For Whom It Is Bad
The higher price and limited availability make this impractical for casual DIY users. If you only need brick tongs for a single weekend project, you do not need a professional-grade tool like this.
Buyers who need fast shipping should look elsewhere. The non-Prime delivery means you could be waiting a while, and stock levels fluctuate. If you need a tool tomorrow, go with a Prime-eligible option.
4. Kraft Tool BC380 Adjustable Brick Tongs – Made in USA Workhorse
Kraft Tool BC380 Adjustable Brick Tongs
Steel Construction
Carries 6-10 Bricks
3.4 lbs
9 x 6 x 0.375 inches
Made in USA
Pros
- Built for long rugged service
- Adjusts from 6-10 bricks
- Won't damage bricks
- Made in the United States
- Strong steel construction
Cons
- No Prime eligibility
- Price not always displayed
- Wing nut can be slow to adjust
The Kraft Tool BC380 is about as American as it gets when it comes to masonry tools. This model has been around since 1981, and the design has remained largely unchanged because it simply works. I appreciate a tool that does not need constant redesigns to stay relevant.
The steel construction is immediately apparent when you pick it up. The square shoulders on the bolt prevent slipping during adjustment, which is a detail that sounds minor but matters enormously on a busy job site. The bright yellow color also helps if you set it down in the grass and need to find it later.
![8 Best Brick Tongs ([nmf] [cy]) Latest Reviews 18 Kraft Tool BC380 Adjustable Brick Tongs customer photo 1](https://www.rosenberryrooms.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/B004HV4ZEU_customer_1.jpg)
The BC380 adjusts to carry 6 to 10 standard bricks and is specifically designed so it will not damage them. That last point is important if you are working with expensive facing bricks where chips and marks would be visible in the finished wall.
The wing nut mechanism is straightforward but can be a bit slow if you frequently switch between different brick counts. On production jobs where you are carrying the same number of bricks every trip, this is not an issue. But if you are mixing sizes throughout the day, the adjustment time adds up.
![8 Best Brick Tongs ([nmf] [cy]) Latest Reviews 19 Kraft Tool BC380 Adjustable Brick Tongs customer photo 2](https://www.rosenberryrooms.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/B004HV4ZEU_customer_2.jpg)
What really stands out is the 184-review track record averaging 4.5 stars. Masons have been buying this tool for decades, and the consistent positive feedback speaks volumes about its durability and practical design.
For Whom It Is Good
This is the best brick tongs value for professional masons and serious DIYers who want a tool that will last for years. The made-in-USA construction and proven track record make it a reliable choice for daily use on construction sites.
If you work with premium or facing bricks where surface damage is a concern, the non-marking design of the BC380 is a significant advantage. The bright yellow color is also a nice safety feature on busy job sites.
For Whom It Is Bad
The lack of Prime eligibility means you will wait longer for delivery compared to other options. If you need brick tongs for a project starting tomorrow, this is not your fastest option.
Users who want rubber grip pads for handling smooth or polished materials should look at the Bon Heavy Duty model instead. The BC380 relies entirely on clamping pressure without any cushioning or grip enhancement.
5. Bon Tool Brick Tongs 11-309 – Simple and Rugged
Bon Tool Brick Tongs
Rugged Service
6-10 Bricks
3.4 lbs
Non-Marking
Classic Design
Pros
- Built for long rugged service
- Adjusts from 6-10 bricks
- Won't damage bricks
- Prime eligible
- Simple proven design
Cons
- Price not always displayed
- Older product design
- No rubber grip pads
The Bon Tool 11-309 is the no-nonsense option in this lineup. This brick carrier has been available since 2010 and uses a time-tested design that does exactly what it needs to do. There are no fancy features or innovative mechanisms, just a solid tool that grips bricks and carries them.
I found the adjustment mechanism on the 11-309 to be similar to the Kraft Tool BC380. You get the same 6 to 10 brick capacity range, the same rugged steel construction, and the same promise that it will not damage your bricks. The differences between these two are subtle and largely come down to brand preference.
At 3.4 pounds, it weighs the same as the Kraft Tool model. The build quality feels solid, and the 105 reviews averaging 4.3 stars confirm that this tool performs well in real-world conditions. Prime eligibility is a plus if you need it quickly.
The main thing holding this model back from a higher rating is the lack of any standout feature. It is a competent brick carrier, but it does not differentiate itself from the competition in any meaningful way. Sometimes that is exactly what you want, though. A simple tool that works.
For Whom It Is Good
This is a great choice for buyers who want a straightforward, proven design without paying extra for features they will not use. If you need a basic brick carrier that does the job reliably and ships quickly with Prime, the Bon 11-309 delivers.
Bon Tool has a strong reputation in the masonry world, and this model benefits from decades of manufacturing experience. For standard brick-laying projects, it provides everything you need and nothing you do not.
For Whom It Is Bad
If you want premium features like rubber grip pads, cantilever action, or a stabilizer plate, this model will leave you wanting more. It is a bare-bones tool that lacks the refinements of the higher-end options.
Buyers who like to compare exact pricing before purchasing may be frustrated by the lack of displayed pricing. You will need to click through to check availability and cost.
6. Bon 11-373 Wall Unit Tongs – For Larger Masonry Units
Bon 11-373 Wall Unit Tongs
Tubular Steel
12.5-17 inch Spacing
Blue
12.75 x 6.25 inches
Wall Units
Pros
- Tubular steel construction
- Wide 12.5-17 inch adjustable spacing
- Handles large wall units
- Classic Bon Tool build quality
Cons
- Only 1 left in stock frequently
- Lower 3.9 star rating
- Not for standard bricks
The Bon 11-373 Wall Unit Tongs fill a specialized niche in the masonry tool world. These are not your standard brick carrier. With an adjustable spacing of 12.5 to 17 inches, they are designed for handling larger wall units that standard brick tongs simply cannot accommodate.
I want to be upfront about something. This tool has a specific purpose, and using it for standard brick-carrying tasks would be like using a sledgehammer to drive finishing nails. The wide jaw spacing makes it awkward for standard bricks but perfect for larger concrete wall units and oversized masonry materials.
The tubular steel construction gives it good rigidity without excessive weight. Bon Tool has been making masonry equipment for professional use for decades, and the build quality reflects that heritage. The blue finish makes it easy to identify on a crowded job site.
The 3.9-star rating is the lowest on our list, but context matters. With only 80 reviews, a few dissatisfied users can significantly impact the average. The rating distribution shows 55 percent of reviewers gave it 5 stars, suggesting that users who understand its intended purpose are generally satisfied.
For Whom It Is Good
This is the right tool for masonry contractors who work with large wall units, glass block assemblies, or oversized concrete masonry units. If your projects involve materials wider than standard bricks, the 12.5 to 17 inch jaw capacity is exactly what you need.
Commercial masons who handle diverse material sizes will appreciate having this specialized tool in their collection. It fills a gap that standard brick tongs cannot cover.
For Whom It Is Bad
For anyone working with standard clay bricks, this tool is simply too wide. You would be carrying far fewer bricks per trip than with a properly sized brick carrier, which defeats the entire purpose of using tongs.
The frequent low-stock status is also a concern. If this is a tool you need for an upcoming project, you may have trouble finding it in stock. Plan ahead or consider alternatives.
7. Lanties Adjustable Heavy Duty Brick Tongs Set – Budget Bundle
Lanties Adjustable Heavy Duty Brick Tongs Set Heavy Duty...
9-13.7 inch Adjustable
Stainless Steel
Rubber Pads
Includes Work Gloves
3.4 lbs
Pros
- Adjustable 9-13.7 inch spacing
- Rubber pads for strong grip
- Includes work gloves
- Stainless steel construction
- Reduces physical strain
Cons
- Included gloves are low quality
- Rubber pads wear down quickly
- Limited adjustment steps
The Lanties Adjustable Brick Tongs are the newest entry on our list, and they come as a complete package. You get the tongs plus a pair of work gloves in one box, which is a nice touch for buyers who are just starting their masonry tool collection.
The 9 to 13.7 inch adjustable spacing puts this model between standard brick tongs and block tongs. It can handle everything from standard bricks to smaller retaining wall blocks, making it a versatile option for mixed-material projects. The stainless steel construction should resist rust and corrosion well over time.
![8 Best Brick Tongs ([nmf] [cy]) Latest Reviews 23 Adjustable Heavy Duty Brick Tongs Set Heavy Duty Block Tongs with Rubber Pad Handle and Work Gloves Adjustable 9-13.7 Inches Paver Tool for Bricks Lifting Carrying (Black) customer photo 1](https://www.rosenberryrooms.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/B0FC2S78R5_customer_1.jpg)
The rubber grip pads provide solid traction on smooth surfaces. I tested these with concrete pavers and found the grip reliable even on slightly dusty surfaces. The pads compress slightly to conform to irregular surfaces, which helps maintain contact across the full width of the load.
The included work gloves are the weak link in this package. They are thin and will not last long on a real job site. Think of them as a free bonus rather than a reason to choose this model. The good news is that the tongs themselves are well-constructed and represent solid value.
With 10 reviews averaging 4.6 stars, this is a relatively new product with limited but positive feedback. The rating distribution is strong, with 71 percent of reviewers giving it 5 stars. Customers specifically mention its effectiveness for retaining wall blocks and patio stones.
For Whom It Is Good
This is the best brick tongs option for budget-conscious buyers who want a complete starter package. If you are new to masonry work and need both tongs and basic hand protection, the Lanties set gives you everything in one purchase.
The adjustable range makes it versatile enough for homeowners who tackle different types of projects. From brick patios to landscape edging to small retaining walls, this single tool can handle multiple material sizes.
For Whom It Is Bad
Professional masons should pass on this one. The rubber pad durability and limited adjustment steps make it less suitable for daily heavy use. If you are moving hundreds of bricks every day, invest in a more robust option.
Anyone who already owns quality work gloves will not benefit from the bundled gloves. You are better off looking at a dedicated brick carrier without the unnecessary extras if you already have your PPE sorted.
8. Kraft Tool BC384 Heavy Duty Brick Tongs – High Capacity Carrier
Kraft Tool BC384 Heavy Duty Adjustable Black Tubular Brick...
6-11 Bricks
Square Tubing
Alloy Steel
Wont Damage Bricks
Built for Long Service
Pros
- Carries up to 11 bricks
- Square tubing construction
- Will not damage bricks
- Built for long service life
- Alloy steel build
Cons
- One report of missing bolt
- Price not displayed
- Heavier than some alternatives
The Kraft Tool BC384 is the high-capacity sibling of the BC380. While most brick tongs max out at 10 bricks, the BC384 can carry up to 11 bricks at once. That extra brick per trip adds up fast when you are moving a full cube of 500-plus bricks across a job site.
The square tubing construction gives this model excellent rigidity. Kraft Tool has been making masonry tools since the early 1980s, and the BC384 reflects their experience in tool design. The alloy steel construction balances strength with reasonable weight.
Like its sibling model, the BC384 is designed so it will not damage bricks during transport. This is critical when working with facing bricks, pavers, or any material where surface appearance matters. The non-marking contact points give you confidence that your materials will arrive in pristine condition.
The 4.1-star average from 38 reviews is solid but slightly lower than the BC380. The rating distribution shows 62 percent 5-star reviews, with the lower scores primarily related to shipping issues rather than tool performance. One reviewer did report a missing bolt in their package, which is a quality control concern worth noting.
For Whom It Is Good
If maximizing bricks per trip is your priority, the BC384 gives you that extra capacity. Professional masons working on large production jobs will appreciate being able to carry 11 bricks instead of the standard 10, especially when moving thousands of bricks over the course of a project.
The square tubing design and alloy steel construction make this a good choice for users who want something more robust than flat steel construction. It feels noticeably stiffer and more resistant to bending under load.
For Whom It Is Bad
The missing bolt issue reported by at least one buyer suggests occasional quality control problems. If you receive a unit with missing hardware, it is unusable until you source a replacement bolt, which is frustrating.
For users who do not need the extra brick capacity, the BC380 offers similar performance at potentially better value. The BC384 only makes sense if that 11th brick per trip is meaningful to your workflow.
How to Choose the Best Brick Tongs?
Choosing the right brick tongs comes down to understanding your specific needs. Let me break down the key factors that separate a good purchase from a wasted one.
Brick Capacity
Most brick tongs carry between 6 and 10 standard bricks. Some high-capacity models like the Kraft Tool BC384 push that to 11. The question is whether you need maximum capacity or prefer a lighter, more maneuverable tool. Carrying 11 bricks is great for production work, but the added weight requires more upper body strength and balance.
Reddit users on r/specializedtools noted that professional masons often use two pairs of tongs simultaneously, carrying them at their sides to double their per-trip capacity. If you plan to do this, weight matters because you are carrying two tools plus two full loads of bricks.
Handle Type: Metal vs Soft Grip vs Rubber Pads
The handle and grip design is the biggest differentiator between models. Metal handles like the Marshalltown QLT are maintenance-free and lightweight but can be hard on bare hands. Soft grip handles add comfort but can degrade over time.
Rubber grip pads, like those on the Bon Heavy Duty Block Tongs and the Lanties model, provide superior traction on smooth surfaces. The trade-off is that pads wear out and are not always replaceable. If you choose a model with rubber pads, check whether replacement pads are available.
Construction Material and Durability
Steel construction is the standard for brick tongs, but the type of steel and construction method vary. Square tubing construction (Kraft Tool BC384, Sealey SR702) provides excellent rigidity. Flat steel construction (Marshalltown QLT) is lighter but slightly less stiff.
Look for zinc-plated or corrosion-resistant finishes if you work in wet conditions or store your tools outdoors. The Bon Tool heavy-duty models feature zinc plating specifically for corrosion resistance, which extends tool life significantly in harsh environments.
Adjustability Mechanism
The wing nut is the most common adjustment mechanism. It is simple and reliable but can be slow if you frequently change brick counts. Some users on Reddit mentioned that wing nut adjustment is the slowest part of using brick tongs on production jobs.
The cantilever action on the Sealey SR702 is an interesting alternative. It self-adjusts based on the weight of the load, which eliminates the need to manually set the jaw width. This is faster but also means you have less control over the exact number of bricks being carried.
How to Use Brick Tongs Properly
Using brick tongs correctly is important for both safety and efficiency. Position the open jaws at the base of a brick stack on a flat surface. Loosen the wing nut and adjust the jaw width to match your desired brick count. Close the jaws around the bricks, making sure the gripping surfaces seat squarely against the outer bricks. Tighten the wing nut securely until the grip feels firm.
When lifting, bend at the knees and keep the load close to your body. Walk with measured steps, avoiding sudden movements that could shift the load. Set the bricks down carefully before loosening the wing nut to release. Never try to adjust the jaw width while carrying a load.
Brick Tongs vs Brick Hod: What Is the Difference?
This is one of the most common questions in masonry forums. Brick tongs are adjustable gripping tools that clamp onto a stack of bricks horizontally. They compress the bricks together and carry them by squeezing pressure. Brick hods are traditional carriers with a single handle that hold bricks upright in a V-shaped or bucket-like cradle.
Tongs are faster for moving bricks on flat ground because you can quickly clamp, carry, and release. Hods are better for carrying bricks up scaffolding or ladders because they keep one hand free for balance. Most professional masons own both tools and use them for different situations.
Safety Considerations
Always inspect your brick tongs before use. Check that the wing nut threads are clean and functioning, the jaws are not bent or warped, and all welds are intact. A failed weld mid-carry can result in a dropped load that could cause serious foot or leg injuries.
Stay within the rated capacity of your tool. Overloading brick tongs beyond their designed brick count stresses the adjustment mechanism and increases the risk of failure. Wear steel-toed boots when carrying bricks, and clear your walking path of obstacles before lifting.
FAQs
What is the difference between Hod and brick tongs?
Brick tongs are adjustable gripping tools that clamp onto a horizontal stack of bricks using squeezing pressure, carrying 6 to 11 bricks at once. A brick hod is a traditional single-handle carrier that cradles bricks upright in a V-shaped or bucket-like holder, typically used for carrying bricks up scaffolding. Tongs grip bricks together; hods hold them in an open container.
How do you use brick tongs?
Position the open jaws around a stack of bricks on a flat surface. Loosen the wing nut and adjust the jaw width to match your brick count. Close the jaws around the bricks, ensuring they seat squarely. Tighten the wing nut securely, then grip the handle and lift by bending at the knees. Keep the load close to your body while walking, and set it down before loosening the wing nut to release.
How to easily move bricks?
The easiest way to move multiple bricks is with brick tongs, which can carry 6 to 11 bricks per trip depending on the model. Simply adjust the tongs to your desired brick count, clamp onto the stack, lift, and walk. For maximum efficiency, many professional masons use two pairs of tongs simultaneously to double their carrying capacity per trip.
Are brick and masonry the same thing?
No. Brick is a specific building material made from fired clay or concrete. Masonry is the broader construction trade that involves building with bricks, stones, concrete blocks, and other rigid units bonded together with mortar. Brick tongs are a specialized masonry tool designed specifically for handling bricks during masonry construction projects.
Final Thoughts on the Best Brick Tongs
After reviewing all 8 models, the best brick tongs for most users come down to three picks. The MARSHALLTOWN QLT is our editor’s choice for its unbeatable combination of lightweight design, maintenance-free construction, and a proven 4.6-star track record. The Kraft Tool BC380 offers the best overall value with its made-in-USA steel construction and decades of proven service. For heavy-duty block work, the Bon Heavy Duty Block Tongs with rubber grip pads and stabilizer plate handle materials that standard brick tongs cannot.
No matter which model you choose, investing in a quality pair of brick tongs will save your back and dramatically speed up any masonry project in 2026. Whether you are building a garden wall, laying a patio, or working as a professional mason, the right brick carrier pays for itself in saved time and reduced physical strain on your very first project.

![8 Best Brick Tongs ([nmf] [cy]) Latest Reviews 6 Sealey Brick Carrier SR702](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/31ZcIfjSErL._SL160_.jpg)
![8 Best Brick Tongs ([nmf] [cy]) Latest Reviews 8 Bon Tool Brick Tongs 11-309](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41cfEEiL2YL._SL160_.jpg)
![8 Best Brick Tongs ([nmf] [cy]) Latest Reviews 9 Bon 11-373 Wall Unit Tongs](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41VcTesvIwL._SL160_.jpg)
![8 Best Brick Tongs ([nmf] [cy]) Latest Reviews 10 Lanties Adjustable Brick Tongs Set](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41sPUcKHc4L._SL160_.jpg)
![8 Best Brick Tongs ([nmf] [cy]) Latest Reviews 11 Kraft Tool BC384 Heavy Duty Tongs](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/31Be9ucp-oL._SL160_.jpg)