Abstract: A surgical fastener applying apparatus includes an anvil half-section (12?) including a distal anvil (12b?) and a proximal handle (12a?) defining a release aperture (185?) at its proximal end. A cartridge receiving half-section (14?) has a distal portion (24a?) dimensioned to receive a single use loading unit and a proximal portion (24b?) configured to support a firing assembly (20?). A clamping lever (16?) is secured to the cartridge receiving half-section and includes a handle portion (190?) supporting an engagement member (218?). A firing assembly is configured to be supported within the proximal portion of the cartridge receiving half-section. The clamping lever is movable from an undamped position to a clamped position to releasably secure the anvil of the anvil half-section in close approximation with the single use loading unit.