Useful or absurd? Gravity Hook for $2.47

This small hook is the mini version of the so-called “Gravity Hook”. Through a special mechanism, the grapple opens and closes relatively automatically, allowing you to pick up small objects in otherwise unreachable places.

• Gravity Hook (small)
  • at AliExpress for $2.47 | GeekBuying for $5.99
• Gravity Hook (big)
  • at AliExpress for $14.57

The joints in the hook allow it to function. If you let the Gravity Hook on a string to the ground, it opens by its own weight. With a bit of skill you can move it so that the opened pliers lie around the object. When lifted, the grippers close again and grip the object. At the same time, its weight prevents the arms from opening again. The possible applications are for example:

• The remote fell behind the sofa.
• Car parked over a drain and oops – the key is gone
• The key to the front door falls into the koi pond in the front garden.
• Any object is on the floor in front of you, but you don’t want to bend down.

Okay, not all of these are real everyday problems. But I think the principle becomes clear.

By the way, a suitable rope that can be tied to the hook is a prerequisite for use. Of course, this should at least be able to carry the weight that the Gravity Hook itself can withstand. This varies depending on the model. For the smallest version there is no weight specification of the China shops, the next larger one should be able to carry up to 25 kg. The best choice here is a stable climbing rope. Under no circumstances should you rely on the hook to support your body weight.

The larger version has an additional metal hook that hooks in the middle. This makes the Gravity Hook similar to a grapple hook (see first picture) and can be used accordingly.

Whether situations arise so often in everyday life in which this gadget is needed remains to be seen. On the other hand, the hook is not an expensive purchase for a few dollars, and as with the umbrella it may be here as well: Better to have one with you and not need one than vice versa. What do you think? Do you think the Gravity Hook can be practical in some situations?