Abstract: A friction stir spot welding device includes a tool head configured for traveling in a first direction towards a workpiece and in a second direction away from the workpiece. A weld tool is rotatably coupled relative to the tool head and includes a free end. The weld tool travels in concert with the tool head. A clamping mechanism is supported by the tool head and substantially surrounds at least the weld tool. The clamping mechanism travels in concert with the tool head and includes a free end defining a contact surface. A portion of the clamping mechanism is movable relative to the tool head between a first position, in which the contact surface is positioned further from the tool head than the free end of the weld tool, and a second position, in which the contact surface is positioned closer to the tool head than the free end of the weld tool. Biasing means bias the clamping mechanism to the first position.