Abstract: A clamping apparatus includes two clamping members pivotally connected at a common point. A leaf spring, connected to a point on each member, tends to force the members together. The leaf spring is connected to one end of a rod, the other end of which is remote from the clamping members. The members are extended beyond the common point toward the remote end of the rod. An actuating device operable from the remote end of the rod, is connected to the extended ends of the clamping members. When the clamping members are opened, they are held in the open position until a selective operation of the actuating device initiates the closing of the clamping members. After the initiating movement, the clamping members are biased closed by the action of the leaf springs.