Abstract: A clamping tool has first and second handles operatively connected to first and second jaws, e.g. clamping or crimping jaws and a retractable third handle attached to the first handle. A spring biases the first and second handles toward a non-engaging position and a restraint arrangement maintains the position of the first and second handles against the biasing force of the spring as the handles move toward the engaging position. In use, the third and second handles are moved toward one another from the engaging position to the non-engaging position. Between the positions, the handles are released and the restraint arrangement maintains the handles in the released position. Thereafter, the first and second handles are engaged, and the handles are moved toward one another to move the handles and the jaws into the engaging position.