Abstract: A pipe clamp for use in oil field operations is provided. The pipe clamp is particularly useful where pipe, casing or tubing must be grasped firmly. The pipe clamp is designed to be safer than existing technology by incorporating a lighter weight design that is self aligning and can be controlled from a relatively remote location. The pipe clamp is comprises a gripping head which wraps around the pipe, an actuator extending radially from the gripping head, and a chain wrapped around the gripping head and connected to a mount located at the radially distant end of the actuator. As the actuator extends, it increases the distance between the gripping head and the mount, thus the chain tightens the friction surfaces of the gripping head about the pipe.