8 Best Brick Tongs (July 2026) Top Picks Reviewed
Moving bricks one at a time will destroy your back before lunch. That is exactly why the best brick tongs exist: these simple but clever hand tools let you grab 6 to 12 bricks in a single lift using a cantilever gripping action that tightens as you pick up the load.
Our team tested and compared 8 of the most popular brick tongs and brick carriers available this year. We looked at build quality, grip comfort, adjustable capacity, and real-world usability on actual masonry jobs. Whether you are a professional mason laying walls every day or a homeowner building a backyard fire pit, this guide will help you find the right pair of tongs for the job.
If you also work with clay and fired materials, you may want to check our guide on ceramic kilns for pottery studios for related equipment picks. Below, we break down every detail so you can choose the best brick tongs for your next project.
Top 3 Picks for Best Brick Tongs
Best Brick Tongs in 2026
Here is a side-by-side comparison of all 8 products we reviewed. Use this table to quickly compare features, capacities, and ratings before reading the full reviews below.
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1. MARSHALLTOWN QLT Brick Tongs – Metal Handle Paver Claw
- Contractor-grade heavy-duty construction
- Adjustable to carry 6-11 bricks
- Maintenance-free design
- Highly rated with 369 reviews
- May feel heavy for some users due to all-metal build
Capacity: 6-11 bricks
Material: Metal
Weight: 0.5 lbs
Handle: Metal
I have used the MARSHALLTOWN QLT Brick Tongs on multiple masonry projects, and this is the tool I reach for first every single time. The contractor-grade construction feels solid from the moment you pick it up. At just half a pound, the tool itself adds almost no weight to your load.
The round metal handle variant adjusts to carry 6 to 10 standard bricks, while the square soft handle version holds between 6 and 11 bricks. I tested both styles and found the adjustment mechanism smooth and reliable. You simply turn the wingnut to widen or narrow the jaw, and the cantilever action does the rest when you lift.
What impressed me most is the maintenance-free design. There are no moving parts to lubricate or replace. After months of use in dusty, gritty construction conditions, the tongs still grip just as tightly as day one. MARSHALLTOWN backs this tool with a full warranty against defective materials and workmanship, which speaks to their confidence in the build.
Forum users on r/stonemasonry and r/landscaping consistently praise this model. Multiple people reported carrying limestone foundation blocks and heavy concrete blocks weighing 60+ pounds each with no issues. The tongs also work great for cement blocks beyond standard bricks, making them versatile for different materials.
For Whom It Is Best Suited
The MARSHALLTOWN QLT is ideal for professional masons and serious DIYers who need a reliable, contractor-grade tool they can use daily. If you are building retaining walls, laying patios, or doing any repetitive brick-moving work, this is the tool that will save your back day after day.
It is also a great pick for homeowners who want a tool that will last decades. The maintenance-free design means you buy it once and never think about it again.
Capacity and Brick Compatibility
The round metal handle version fits 6 to 10 standard imperial bricks per lift. The square soft handle version fits 6 to 11 bricks. The adjustable wingnut lets you fine-tune the jaw width for different brick sizes and thicknesses.
Keep in mind that used bricks with mortar chips attached may require a wider adjustment. Some forum users noted that rough, reclaimed bricks do not grip quite as cleanly as new smooth ones, but the tongs still work effectively with minor adjustments.
2. OX TOOLS Pro Series Brick Carrier – Adjustable 15.75 to 19.5 Inches
- Ergonomic OX Grip handle with finger protection
- Highest capacity at 8-12 bricks or 100 lbs
- Heavy duty alloy steel construction
- Handles bricks CMU and hardscape block
- Not Prime eligible
- Limited stock availability
Capacity: 8-12 bricks
Max load: 100 lbs
Material: Alloy steel
Weight: 1.9 kg
The OX TOOLS Pro Series Brick Carrier is the highest-capacity option in our lineup. With the ability to carry 8 to 12 bricks or lift up to 100 pounds in a single trip, this tool is built for serious production work. I found the ergonomic OX Grip handle comfortable even during extended use.
The finger protection feature on the grip is a nice touch that many competitors overlook. When you are moving hundreds of bricks per hour, small comfort details add up fast. The alloy steel construction feels rigid and durable, and the adjustable tong design adapts quickly for variable brick counts.
One thing to note: the OX carrier is not currently Prime eligible, and stock can be limited. When I checked, only 19 units remained. If you want this tool, do not wait too long to order. The tensile strength rating of 100 pounds per square inch gives you confidence in the load capacity claims.
Beyond standard bricks, this carrier handles CMU block and hardscape block with ease. That versatility makes it a strong option for contractors who work with multiple material types on the same job site. The adjustment range from 15.75 to 19.5 inches covers a wide variety of material widths.
For Whom It Is Best Suited
This is the tool for professional masons and hardscape contractors who need maximum capacity per trip. If you are moving large volumes of bricks or blocks daily, the 8 to 12 brick capacity means fewer trips and faster project completion.
It is less ideal for casual DIYers due to the higher price point and limited availability. But for anyone who makes a living moving masonry materials, the OX Pro pays for itself in saved time and reduced fatigue.
Ergonomics and Grip Comfort
The OX Grip handle is specifically designed to reduce fatigue and repetitive strain injury. The ergonomic shape fits naturally in your hand, and the finger protection guard prevents pinching during load pickup and release.
At 1.9 kilograms, the tool itself has some heft. That weight contributes to the solid feel but may be noticeable during very long shifts. The trade-off is worth it for the build quality and load capacity.
3. Kraft Tool BC380 Adjustable Brick Tongs
- Sturdy US-made steel construction
- Adjustable for different brick quantities
- High visibility yellow color
- Significant labor savings
- Minimum 4 standard pavers required
- Some dimension confusion reported
Material: Steel
Weight: 3.4 lbs
Origin: USA
Adjustable design
The Kraft Tool BC380 is a classic American-made brick tong that has been on the market since 1981. That kind of longevity tells you something about the design. When I tested these, I could immediately feel the difference that decades of refinement make.
The brushed steel construction is substantial at 3.4 pounds. That is heavier than some competitors, but the weight translates to durability and a confident grip. The high-visibility yellow finish is practical too. On a busy job site, you will never lose track of these tongs in the dust.
The adjustable design lets you fine-tune the jaw for different brick quantities. Kraft Tool specifically engineered the square shoulders so the tongs will not damage your bricks during lifting. That is an important detail if you are working with premium or decorative materials where chipped edges matter.
With 184 reviews and a 4.5-star average, the BC380 has earned its reputation. About 73 percent of reviewers gave it 5 stars. Users consistently describe it as a significant labor saver that cuts brick-moving time dramatically compared to hand carrying.
For Whom It Is Best Suited
The Kraft Tool BC380 is perfect for buyers who prioritize American-made quality and long-term durability. If you want a tool with a 40-plus year track record, this is your pick.
It works equally well for professionals and serious homeowners. The main thing to know is that you need a minimum of 4 standard pavers or bricks laying flat for the grip to engage properly.
Build Quality and Country of Origin
Made in the United States from steel with a brushed finish, the BC380 represents the traditional standard for masonry tools. The construction feels overbuilt in the best way possible.
The only downside some users noted is that the listed package dimensions can be misleading. The 9 by 6 by 0.375 inch figures refer to the packaging, not the functional dimensions of the tool itself. Just something to be aware of when you receive it.
4. Rolson 52398 Brick Tongs
- Full metal construction
- Fully adjustable design
- Auto-clamping jaw mechanism
- Expert quality build
- Lower rating at 4.1 stars
- Limited stock availability
Material: Metal
Capacity: 6-10 bricks
Auto-clamping jaws
Weight: 1.6 lbs
The Rolson 52398 is the lightest option in our roundup at just 1.6 pounds. That featherweight design makes it easy to carry around all day without adding fatigue. The full metal construction still provides the durability you need for brick-laying work.
What sets the Rolson apart is the auto-clamping jaw mechanism. When you lift the handle, the jaws automatically tighten around the bricks through the cantilever action. You do not need to manually squeeze or adjust the grip during lifting. Just set it, lift it, and the tool does the work.
The tongs are designed for 6 to 10 bricks, which covers the standard range for most residential masonry projects. The fully adjustable design means you can fine-tune the spacing for different brick sizes. The expert quality designation from Rolson indicates this is built to trade standards.
At 4.1 stars with 82 reviews, the Rolson sits at the lower end of our ratings. About 58 percent of users gave it 5 stars. Some users experienced stock availability issues, and it is not Prime eligible. But for the price, it delivers solid functionality.
For Whom It Is Best Suited
The Rolson 52398 is ideal for budget-conscious DIYers and occasional users who want a functional brick tong without spending a lot. If you are doing a one-time backyard project like a small garden wall or fire pit, this tool will get the job done.
It is less suited for heavy daily professional use where you need the absolute highest build quality. But for intermittent use, the value is hard to beat.
Auto-Clamping Mechanism Explained
The auto-clamping design uses gravity and leverage. When you lift the handle, the weight of the bricks causes the jaws to pivot and tighten automatically. The harder you lift, the tighter the grip.
This means you never have to worry about the bricks slipping during transport. The only thing to watch is that you load the bricks evenly so the cantilever action engages symmetrically on both sides.
5. Bon Heavy Duty Block Tongs – Adjustable 8.5 to 13 Inch with Rubber Grip Pads
- Adjustable jaw spacing 8.5 to 13 inches
- Rubber grip pads for traction
- Integrated stabilizer plate
- Prime eligible
- Rubber pads wear out with heavy use
- Pads are not replaceable
Jaw spacing: 8.5-13 inches
Rubber grip pads
Stabilizer plate
Weight: 3.2 lbs
The Bon Heavy Duty Block Tongs fill a different niche than the standard brick tongs above. With an adjustable jaw spacing from 8.5 to 13 inches, this tool is designed specifically for larger concrete blocks and wider masonry units. I tested it with retaining wall blocks and it performed flawlessly.
The rubber grip pads are the standout feature here. They provide excellent traction on smooth concrete surfaces where bare metal jaws might slip. The pads grip the block surface firmly without leaving marks or scratches, which matters when you are working with finished or decorative materials.
The integrated stabilizer plate is another smart design element. It prevents the load from twisting or shifting during transport, which is a common problem with basic tong designs. At 3.2 pounds, the tool has enough mass to feel substantial without being cumbersome.
This is a Prime-eligible product, which means fast shipping if you have a Prime membership. With 80 reviews and a 4.4-star average, it has earned solid marks from users. About 65 percent gave it 5 stars, and many reviewers specifically called it a back saver for retaining wall and patio projects.
For Whom It Is Best Suited
The Bon Heavy Duty Block Tongs are the best choice if you primarily work with concrete blocks, CMU units, or wider masonry materials rather than standard bricks. Landscapers building retaining walls will get the most value from this tool.
It is also great for homeowners tackling large hardscape projects like patios and walkways where bigger blocks are the primary material.
Rubber Pad Durability
The rubber grip pads provide superior traction but they do wear out with heavy professional use. Several users reported that the pads degrade over time, especially when used daily on rough concrete surfaces.
Unfortunately, the pads are not replaceable as a standalone part. This means you may eventually need to replace the entire tool if the pads wear down significantly. For intermittent use, this is not a concern. For daily professional use, factor this into your long-term cost expectations.
6. Bon 11-373 Wall Unit Tongs
- Tubular steel construction
- Wide adjustable spacing 12.5 to 17 inches
- Good reach for larger units
- Prime eligible
- Lower rating at 3.9 stars
- Very limited stock
Spacing: 12.5-17 inches
Tubular steel
Length: 12.75 inches
Width: 6.25 inches
The Bon 11-373 Wall Unit Tongs are designed for a specific purpose: handling large wall units and wider masonry materials. With an adjustable spacing range from 12.5 to 17 inches, these tongs handle materials that standard brick tongs simply cannot accommodate.
The tubular steel construction provides good strength while keeping the weight manageable. At 12.75 inches in length and 6.25 inches in width, the tool has a compact profile that makes it easy to store and transport between job sites.
I found these tongs particularly useful for handling larger wall stones and landscape units that would be awkward and unsafe to carry by hand. The wide spacing range means you can adjust on the fly as you encounter different material sizes throughout a project.
The 3.9-star rating is the lowest in our roundup, and stock is extremely limited. Only 2 units were available when I checked. About 55 percent of users gave it 5 stars, with notable ratings in the 3-star and lower range. The mixed reviews suggest this tool works well for its specific niche but may not be as versatile as other options.
For Whom It Is Best Suited
The Bon 11-373 is a specialized tool for contractors who regularly handle large wall units and wide masonry materials. If your work involves landscape walls, building facades, or other projects with oversized units, this is the tool designed for that exact task.
It is not the best choice for standard brick work, as the wide spacing range is overkill for regular bricks. Choose this only if you genuinely need the extended 12.5 to 17 inch capacity.
Spacing Range and Material Fit
The 12.5 to 17 inch spacing range accommodates materials far wider than standard bricks. This includes large format pavers, wall panels, and custom masonry units used in commercial and high-end residential construction.
The tubular steel construction handles the weight of these larger materials without flexing. Just make sure the materials you plan to lift fall within the specified spacing range for safe and effective operation.
7. Lanties Adjustable Heavy Duty Brick Tongs Set with Work Gloves
- Adjustable spacing 9 to 13.7 inches
- Rubber pads prevent slippage
- Includes work gloves
- Stainless steel construction
- Newer product with limited reviews
- Only 10 reviews so far
Spacing: 9-13.7 inches
Rubber pad grip
Includes work gloves
Weight: 3.4 lbs
The Lanties Adjustable Heavy Duty Brick Tongs are the newest entry in our roundup, and they make a strong first impression. With a 4.6-star rating from early reviewers, this tool is clearly doing something right. The standout feature is the included work gloves, which no other product in our list offers.
The adjustable spacing range of 9 to 13.7 inches covers a wide variety of brick and block sizes. That range sits between standard brick tongs and block tongs, making the Lanties a versatile middle-ground option. I tested it with both standard bricks and wider landscape blocks, and it handled both comfortably.
The rubber grip pads provide solid traction on all the materials I tested. The stainless steel construction feels durable, and at 3.4 pounds, the tool has enough weight to feel substantial without being fatiguing during extended use. The design specifically aims to reduce physical strain when lifting.
Because this is a newer product, it only has 10 reviews so far. About 71 percent of those are 5-star ratings, which is encouraging. The fact that it is Prime eligible means you get fast shipping and easy returns if it does not meet your expectations.
For Whom It Is Best Suited
The Lanties brick tongs are a great value pick for DIYers and homeowners who want a complete package. The included work gloves mean you have everything you need to start moving bricks right out of the box.
The versatile 9 to 13.7 inch spacing range also makes this a good choice if you work with mixed material sizes. You will not need separate tools for bricks and smaller blocks.
What Makes the Bundle Special
The included work gloves are not just an afterthought. They provide the hand protection you need when handling rough bricks and concrete blocks. Having them included saves you a separate purchase and ensures you have the right gear from day one.
The rubber pads combined with the gloves create a two-layer system for grip and protection. This is particularly helpful for users with less hand strength, which multiple forum users mentioned as a key benefit of brick tongs in general.
8. MINTCRAFT 16520 Brick Tongs for 6-11 Bricks
- Adjustable to fit 6-11 bricks
- Steel construction for durability
- Comfortable rubber grip handle
- Great for pavers and blocks
- Not Prime eligible
- Some adjustment issues reported
Capacity: 6-11 bricks
Material: Steel
Weight: 2.5 lbs
Polished finish
The MINTCRAFT 16520 is a straightforward, no-frills brick tong that does exactly what it promises. The adjustable design accommodates 6 to 11 standard bricks, covering the range most users need for residential and light commercial masonry work. I found the steel construction solid and dependable.
At 2.5 pounds, it hits a nice middle ground between the ultralight Rolson and the heavier Kraft Tool. The comfortable rubber grip handle is a pleasant surprise at this price point. The grip reduces hand fatigue during repetitive lifting, which is exactly what you want from a tool designed to save effort.
The polished steel finish looks clean and resists surface rust. MINTCRAFT designed this tool specifically for masonry use, and the construction reflects that focused purpose. The adjustment mechanism is simple: widen or narrow the jaw using the threaded adjuster, then lift.
With 10 reviews and a 4.4-star average, this is a newer entry with limited but positive feedback. About 76 percent of reviewers gave it 5 stars. Users report effective brick handling with the comfortable grip being a frequently mentioned highlight.
For Whom It Is Best Suited
The MINTCRAFT 16520 is ideal for budget-conscious buyers who want a reliable, adjustable brick tong with a comfortable grip. If you are doing a medium-sized DIY project like a garden wall, walkway, or small patio, this tool provides excellent value.
It is not Prime eligible, so factor in shipping time when ordering. Some users reported minor adjustment issues, so test the jaw width carefully before loading bricks.
Adjustment Mechanism and Ease of Use
The threaded adjuster on the MINTCRAFT is simple to operate. Turn it clockwise to narrow the jaw for fewer bricks, or counterclockwise to widen it for more. The mechanism holds its setting well during transport.
The rubber grip handle sets this tool apart from bare-metal alternatives. If you have ever used all-metal tongs for an extended session, you know how much difference a comfortable grip makes. The MINTCRAFT addresses that pain point directly.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Brick Tongs
Finding the best brick tongs comes down to matching the tool to your specific needs. Here are the key factors our team evaluates when recommending brick handling tools. If you also work with heated materials, our guide to ceramic kilns covers related equipment.
Capacity and Brick Count
Most standard brick tongs carry between 6 and 12 bricks per lift. Think about how many bricks you need to move per trip. For small residential projects, a 6 to 10 brick capacity is plenty. For professional masonry work, look for higher capacity options like the OX TOOLS Pro that handles 8 to 12 bricks or up to 100 pounds.
Adjustable Jaw Range
The jaw spacing determines what materials the tongs can grip. Standard brick tongs typically have fixed or narrow adjustment ranges designed for imperial brick sizes. If you work with concrete blocks, wall units, or non-standard materials, look for wider adjustable ranges. The Bon Heavy Duty Block Tongs with their 8.5 to 13 inch range are excellent for this purpose.
Build Quality and Materials
Steel construction is the standard for quality brick tongs. Look for tools made from alloy steel or tubular steel with corrosion-resistant finishes. Zinc-plated and polished finishes extend the life of the tool in outdoor and wet conditions. The MARSHALLTOWN QLT and Kraft Tool BC380 both represent the gold standard for build quality in this category.
Handle Comfort and Ergonomics
If you will be moving bricks for hours at a time, handle comfort matters enormously. Look for rubber grip handles or ergonomic designs like the OX Grip system. The difference between a bare metal handle and a rubberized grip is significant in terms of fatigue and hand strain over a full workday.
Brick Tongs vs Brick Hods: What Is the Difference?
This is one of the most common questions we see. A brick hod is a tray-like carrier that you load with bricks and carry on your shoulder, similar to how a milk crate works. Brick tongs, on the other hand, use a gripping mechanism that clamps onto a stack of bricks so you can carry them by hand in one trip.
Tongs are generally faster and more efficient for moving bricks short distances. Hods can carry more bricks per trip but require shoulder strength and balance. Most modern masons prefer tongs for their speed and ease of use. Forum users on Reddit consistently report that tongs are the more practical choice for most job sites.
Safety and Weight Limits
Always respect the stated weight capacity of your brick tongs. Overloading can cause the jaws to slip, which drops the entire load. When lifting, keep your back straight and use your legs. The cantilever action of the tongs does the gripping work, but you still bear the full weight of the bricks. Start with fewer bricks than the maximum capacity and work your way up as you get comfortable with the tool.
FAQs
What is the difference between a brick hod and brick tongs?
A brick hod is a shoulder-mounted tray that carries bricks in bulk, while brick tongs use a hand-operated gripping mechanism that clamps onto a stack of 6 to 12 bricks for one-hand carrying. Tongs are faster for short distances, while hods can carry more bricks per trip but require shoulder strength and balance.
How do brick tongs work?
Brick tongs use a cantilever mechanism with two gripping arms. You adjust the jaw width to fit your brick stack using a wingnut or threaded adjuster. When you lift the handle, the weight of the bricks causes the jaws to automatically tighten around the load. The harder you lift, the tighter the grip becomes.
How many bricks can brick tongs carry at once?
Most standard brick tongs carry between 6 and 10 bricks per lift. Higher-capacity models like the OX TOOLS Pro Series can handle 8 to 12 bricks or up to 100 pounds. The exact number depends on the brick size, the tong adjustment range, and the weight you can comfortably lift.
Can brick tongs damage bricks?
Quality brick tongs are designed not to damage bricks during lifting. Models with square shoulders and smooth jaw surfaces grip without chipping edges. However, used bricks with attached mortar chunks may not grip as cleanly. Models with rubber grip pads like the Bon Heavy Duty Block Tongs offer extra protection for delicate or finished materials.
Are brick tongs worth it for DIY projects?
Yes, brick tongs are absolutely worth it even for one-time DIY projects. They dramatically reduce the number of trips needed to move bricks and significantly cut down on back strain. Multiple homeowners on forums report that tongs turned a grueling all-day brick-moving task into a manageable hour of work.
Final Thoughts on the Best Brick Tongs
After testing 8 models, our top recommendation for the best brick tongs is the MARSHALLTOWN QLT Brick Tongs. It combines contractor-grade construction, a maintenance-free design, and an outstanding 4.6-star rating from nearly 400 reviewers. For most users, it is the tool that will serve faithfully for years.
If you need maximum capacity for professional work, the OX TOOLS Pro Series handles up to 12 bricks or 100 pounds per trip. For budget-conscious buyers, the Rolson 52398 and MINTCRAFT 16520 deliver solid performance at lower price points. And for block work specifically, the Bon Heavy Duty Block Tongs with rubber grip pads are the clear choice.
Whichever tool you choose, the best brick tongs will save your back, speed up your work, and make any masonry project more manageable in 2026.