Abstract: The invention relates to a device for use in the direct tensile testing of materials, in particular brittle materials, which is self-centering under eccentrically applied loads. The apparatus effectively communicates a compressive load applied thereto to a tensile load applied substantially concentrically to the pull axis of the test specimen and thus can be employed to obtain direct tensile test characteristics by utilizing devices capable of exerting compressive forces only. In one embodiment, the apparatus comprises a pair of grips for gripping the specimen which are pivotally attached at right angles to respective sleeves in a dual sleeve assembly. The sleeves are movable so as to self-center the load which is applied, thereby eliminating bending stresses associated with off-centered loading and thus providing more accurate test results.