Abstract: An exemplary apparatus includes a reach-extender shaft having a first end and a second end. A jaw assembly may be attached to the first end of the reach-extender shaft. The jaw assembly may be angularly displaced from the first end of the reach-extender shaft and may include a pair of jaws having a stationary jaw and a moveable jaw pivotably attached to the stationary jaw. A handle assembly may be attached to the second end of the reach-extender shaft. The handle assembly includes a grip with a trigger and a shield. The trigger is pivotably attached to the grip and operatively attached to the jaw assembly by an actuator rod coupled between the trigger and the moveable jaw. The shield is located between the jaw assembly and the trigger, in a plane angled across the longitudinal axis of the reach-extender shaft.