The present invention relates generally to devices and methods for retrieving or manipulating objects within a lumen. More specifically, embodiments of the invention relate to devices and methods for retrieving or manipulating medical devices from a body lumen. One embodiment of the present invention provides a novel and improved retrieval snare and method of fabricating and using the same. The snare includes a snare wire, having a distal end and a proximal end, for use in the human anatomy, such as but not limited to blood vessels, pulmonary airways, reproductive anatomy, gastrointestinal anatomy, and organs such as the kidneys or lungs. The device enables a user to capture a foreign object located within the human anatomy, grasp said object in a controlled manner, and retrieve and remove said object from the human anatomy.