Abstract: An anchoring apparatus for engaging a borehole surface includes an anchoring member, an actuator, a fluid chamber, and an intensifier piston within a housing. The intensifier piston includes a first end having a surface area greater than a second, the second end being in communication with the fluid chamber, such that application of pressure to the first end applies a second pressure, greater than the first, to fluid in the chamber, which is in turn applied to the actuator to extend the anchoring member toward the borehole surface with intensified force. A second intensifier piston and fluid chamber can be included and used to apply intensified pressure to the actuator to retract the anchoring member. A movable mandrel within the housing can be used to physically apply a physical force to one or both intensifier pistons in place of or in addition to fluid pressure.