Abstract: A device for ensuring the smooth shifting of a strand from a full reel to an empty reel in a strand winding machine including improvements in the snaggers provided on the wheels which are rotating with the two associated reels arranged parallel to each other. The snaggers are provided on each wheel and are supported by a shaft parallel to the central axis of revolution of the wheel such that the snaggers are rotatable about the shaft. The centroids of the snaggers are displaced from the pivot of the snagger itself, that is, positioned on that side of the pivot which is opposite from the pointed end of the snagger. Thus, the snagger can securely grip and hold the strand during rotation of the wheel and can release the strand when the wheel comes to rest.