Abstract: A band tightening tool is provided having a pair of stamped members, each of which has the same structural configuration. The two stamped members are fixedly joined together by a welding process. When connected together, the two stamped members define a channel, a pair of cross holes and an open area. The two cross holes receive a band tightening mandrel having a mandrel slot. The cross holes and mandrel include cooperating retaining elements to prevent unwanted separation of the mandrel from the cross holes. To tighten a band about an object, the end portion of the band is inserted through the channel defined by the two stamped members so that the band end portion can be attached to the band tightening tool. Rotational movement of the band tightening mandrel causes the band to be tightened about the object. In so doing, the open area between the channel and the cross holes acts to accommodate the band portions being wrapped around the mandrel.