Abstract: A gripping device that engages and disengages an inserted workpiece with an essentially perpendicular engagement action thereby eliminating any sliding contact with the workpiece. Such perpendicular and non-sliding engagement is achieved through the action of a plurality of gripping fingers driven by a spherical ball and hinged inside of a chuck housing that guides the fingers in a substantially perpendicular motion relative to the engaged surface during engagement and disengagement. Engagement with a workpiece is achieved by the simple action of compressing a spring retained outer casing and releasing the outer casing once the workpiece has been placed-within the gripping range of the internal fingers.