reachers

Reachers, in common usage, most often refer to extendable grabbber devices designed to increase a person’s reach. Also called reacher-grabbers, grabber tools, or pickup tools, they consist of a long handle attached to a jaw or claw at the end, operated by a trigger near the handle. Some models include a magnet, suction cup, or rotating head to accommodate different objects and angles.

Manual reachers are typically made of aluminum, fiberglass, or steel, and vary in length from about 24 to 40 inches. Powered versions may use a small battery and electric motor to actuate the grabbing mechanism.

Uses include assisting people with limited mobility or after surgery, enabling them to retrieve items from the floor, high shelves, or far corners without bending. They are also used in healthcare, kitchens, and warehouses to reduce strain and the risk of falls.

Limitations include limited load capacity, difficulty gripping irregular shapes, and risk of dropping items. They are usually unsuitable for heavy, sharp, or delicate objects. Despite these limits, reachers remain common in households, clinics, and industrial settings, and are widely sold as low-cost aids. Related tools include manual and powered grabbers, kitchen reachers, and industrial extendable tools.