Abstract: Gripping apparatus includes a supporting body having a pair of spaced generally parallel levers independently mounted thereon for pivotal movement toward and away from each other, the respective pivot axes being spaced and parallel. Two elongated cam bars are slidably mounted on the body in parallel juxtaposition with the levers, respectively. The bars are disposed between the pivot axes, respectively, and the body with the axes being opposite the midportions of the bars. Opposed cam devices are provided between the opposite ends of the bars and the respective levers for pivoting the latter oppositely toward and away from each other in response to reciprocal movement of the bars. Means are provided for reciprocating the bars in unison. The body is in the form of a cylinder and the reciprocating means a piston reciprocably received therein. The levers and bars extend longitudinally of the cylinder on diametrically opposite sides thereof.