Abstract: A method and apparatus for controlling stock tension as it is withdrawn from a coil in which a coil support is mounted for rotation about an axis transverse to the direction of withdrawal of stock from the coil and also for limited shifting movement along a path lengthwise of the direction of stock withdrawal. Shifting movement of the coil support in the direction of stock withdrawal is yieldably opposed with a generally uniform biasing force and the rotation of the coil about its axis is variably braked in response to shifting of the coil along said path to maintain the exiting tension on the stock substantially equal to the biasing force.