Skidding Tongs and Lifting Tongs are made of round high-carbon steel and have heavy up-set, hammer-forged points or hooks. High carbon steel is noted for its stiffness and extra strength. The sides are flattened evenly where they pivot. This gives a larger bearing surface and allows for the pivot to be shorter and of a larger diameter. The tongs are shaped so that a good grip is obtained on straddled logs and poles. The hooks are heat treated to resist straightening.