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[-Peter]

The hook is an extension of your arm. It allows you to move and manipulate the snake and things around it without getting within biting range(generally). It can allow you to hold a snake by the tail end and have some(repeat, some) control over its movements.
As Magpie says not all situations are the same and you must adapt to the situation so all the methods have their application. Even tongs can have their place though not in my rack.