Abstract: A clamping device (1, 25, 35) for releasably clamping an insertion member (9, 27, 38) with a shank portion, the clamping device comprising a clamping member having an insertion bore (11, 26, 40) formed by the union of an access bore portion (19A, 31A, 41A) and a gripping bore portion (19B, 31B, 41B) for the free sliding insertion into and withdrawal from the shank portion in respect of the access bore portion and its clamping by a clamping surface of the gripping bore portion on its forced displacement thereinto from the access bore portion, the access and gripping bore portions having longitudinal axes (20A, 20B; 32A, 32B; 43A, 43B) spaced apart at least along a portion thereof.