Sounds as if you are on the right track....A V-shaped hook should be good for handling small elapids, as well as flipping boards, logs, what have you...
To BV, I can only agree. I
also use primarily U-shaped hooks. I just don't profess to understand some of your handling situations better than a local. (not saying that
you do.
)
As an aside, I find it hard to speak on the internet without sounding like A) an #$%#, or B) a suck-up.
I can assure you that
neither is the case, but I can understand the leanings that some people may have, one way or the other.....
" a squat, scaly worm with, 'don't touch,' on one end and, 'that's why,' on the other."
-Thomas Palmer