Just wanted to add that I used to use only tongs and spatulas on the gasser and the weber kettle. But once I bought the pellet grill, I also purchased the pigtail.
I mostly use it to open and close the slats for direct flame, but I've also used to flip steaks. I didn't realize how easy it was to flip the food with this thing! My hand doesn't hurt from opening and closing a set of tongs. If I ever do sausages, I probably wouldn't, but for times when I have several other kinds of meats or chicken on the grill that all need to be flipped, I would certainly not be afraid to use this. Just my $0.02.