Abstract: A hold-down device comprising first and second supports which are secured to an hydraulic shear or the like against vertical movement. First and second shafts are slidably received by the first and second supports and have a hold-down shoe secured to the lower ends thereof. An elongated member is secured and extends between the upper ends of the first and second supports and has a first tubular member slidably mounted thereon. An inclined member has one end secured to the first shaft and its other end secured to the upper end of an upstanding post which is secured to the hold-down shoe. A second tubular member is slidably mounted on the inclined member and is interconnected to the first tubular member by a web. A handle pivotally connects the post and the web so that movement of the handle in one direction causes the hold-down shoe to be lowered and so that pivotal movement of the handle in a direction opposite to the said one direction will cause the hold-down shoe to be raised.