Abstract: The invention relates to a two-handle arrangement for a handheld portable tool having a drive motor and equipped with forward and rearward handles for two-handled operation. Each of these handles includes respective actuating elements which can be actuated only in a specific sequence. First, force must be applied to the actuating element on the forward handle and only when a corresponding actuation of the throttle lever takes place is there an increase in the speed of the drive motor. The invention is especially suited for handheld portable tools equipped with an internal combustion engine such as motor-driven chain saws, hedge trimmers and the like.