Forceps

Quick Answer: These forceps are spring-action thumb forceps, two joined arms that close when squeezed, used to grip, lift and hold tissue and small objects. In biology labs, dissecting forceps are the holding instrument of every dissection, used alongside scissors, needles and scalpels.

Choosing the Right Tip

Thumb forceps are held like a pencil, with the arms between thumb and fingers, and closed by gentle pressure; when released, the spring of the arms opens them again. What makes one pair suit a job better than another is the tip. Blunt forceps with broad, serrated tips are for general holding. Fine-pointed forceps pick up small parts and tease tissue under the microscope. Toothed forceps, with small interlocking teeth, grip skin and slippery tissue that plain tips let slip. Tips may be straight or curved, and curved tips make it easier to see what is being held.

The listing title is simply ‘Forceps’ and does not state the pattern, length or material, and the image file name carries only a catalogue code. If you need a particular tip type, specify it when ordering. For a choice of patterns in one listing, see Forceps, More Types.

A well-made pair closes with the tips meeting evenly before the arms touch further back, so the grip is at the tips. Check this on arrival and after any fall, since a bent arm gives a weak or crossed grip.

Specifications

Care & Handling

• Clean the tips after each use; dried tissue in the serrations stops them gripping.
• Never use forceps as a lever or to open containers, which springs the arms.
• Store forceps with the tips protected, in a case, rack or tip guard.

Applications

• Holding and lifting tissue during plant and animal dissections
• Transferring seeds, small specimens and cover slips
• Peeling leaf or onion epidermis for temporary mounts
• Picking up antibiotic discs or sterile items after flame-sterilising metal forceps

Why Choose LabEquip

Forceps are the instrument schools and colleges replace most often, because tips get bent and pairs go missing. LabEquip lists single forceps alongside Cheatle forceps and other patterns in its Biology Lab Products range.

Frequently Asked Questions

How should dissecting forceps be held?

Like a pencil, between the thumb and the index and middle fingers, so that small movements of the fingers control the tips.

When should I use toothed forceps instead of plain ones?

Use toothed forceps for skin and tough, slippery tissue. Use plain forceps for delicate tissue, vessels and nerves, which teeth would puncture.

What are fine-pointed forceps used for?

Picking up very small parts, such as stamens or insect appendages, teasing tissue apart and positioning material on a slide.

Why do curved forceps exist?

The curve keeps the hand out of the line of sight, so the user can see the tips and what they hold, especially under a lens or microscope.

How do I check that forceps are aligned?

Close them gently: the tips should meet evenly before the arms touch further back. If the tips cross or gape, the pair needs adjusting or replacing.

Can metal forceps be flame-sterilised?

Yes. In microbiology the tips are dipped in alcohol and passed through a flame to burn it off. Keep the alcohol container away from the flame, and let the forceps cool before touching agar.

Last Updated: September 2026