# Fencing-Like Grill Utensils The Heat Shield Barbecue Tools Protect Knuckles from Burns By Meghan Young | Published 2012-04-10 | Art & Design Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/heat-shield-barbecue-tools References: [gizmodo](http://gizmodo.com/5899968/en-gardefencing) & [hammacher](http://www.hammacher.com/Product/81427?source=CJ&cm_mmc=CJ-_-1414665-_-1492714-_-Hammacher) The Heat Shield Barbecue Tools show how much of a difference a simple design tweak can make. While most [grilling utensils](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/wooden-kitchen-tools) have straight handles with no obstructions, these tools boast an additional [stainless steel guard](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/caraway-kitchen-gadget) that protects hands from the heat of the barbecue and accidental flare-ups, mitigating any burns that might result from sloppy forms, distractions and more. Shaped like a fencing sword, the Heat Shield Barbecue Tools are a fun alternative to traditional ones. As practical as the shield may be, these tools will inspire some playful duels in between flipping burgers and turning sausages. Each set includes a fork, spatula and tongs. The spatula also comes with a [cooking thermometer](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/practical-kitchen-tools) that is hidden within its shaft. In addition to the guards, the Heat Shield Barbecue Tools are ergonomic and good-looking. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 1.4/10 - Popularity: 5% | Activity: 28% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 70% men, 30% women - Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America, Europe, Asia ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Art & Design](https://www.trendhunter.com/artdesign) > [Design](https://www.trendhunter.com/design) ## Key Themes ### What's Driving This Trend - **Heat Shield Barbecue Tools:** Disruptive Innovation Opportunity: Designing grilling utensils with additional stainless steel guards to protect hands from heat and accidental flare-ups. - **Fun and Fencing-like Grilling Utensils:** Disruptive Innovation Opportunity: Creating playful and fun alternatives to traditional grilling utensils that inspire interactive and enjoyable cooking experiences. - **Ergonomic and Practical Grilling Utensils:** Disruptive Innovation Opportunity: Developing grilling utensils that are not only ergonomic but also attractive in design for a better and more enjoyable cooking experience. ### Who This Affects Most - **Outdoor Cooking and Barbecue Equipment:** Disruptive Innovation Opportunity: Incorporating innovative features and designs into grilling utensils to enhance safety, convenience, and overall cooking experience. - **Kitchen and Cooking Tools:** Disruptive Innovation Opportunity: Introducing new and unique grilling utensils that offer improved functionality and user experience. - **Home and Garden Products:** Disruptive Innovation Opportunity: Creating innovative and user-friendly grilling accessories that add value and enhance outdoor cooking activities. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Fully-Forged BBQ Tools](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/nomad-grills.md) - [Tong-Style Fire Pit Utensils](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/pit-command-talon.md) - [Travel-Friendly Grilling Tools](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/the-tailgater.md) - [Artisan BBQ Knife Sets](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/bbq-knife-set.md) - [Anti-Scald Protective Covers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/protective-covers.md) - [Old-Fashioned Toolbox Grills](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/retro-blaze-charcoal-grill.md) - [Dependable Rustic Camping Utensils](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/opinel-grilling-set.md) - [Versatile Kitchen Multi-Tools](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/kitchen-multitools.md) - [Multi-Color Kitchen Tongs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/multicolor-kitchen-tongs.md)