Abstract: An improved ratchet or gear wrench that has a built-in, non-slip, gripping clip mechanism for retaining a nut in the tool, which can either be applied to the nut or clamped out-of-the-way. This tool allows a nut to be tightened or loosened from a bolt or threaded stud more quickly and with one hand. To attain this, the present invention essentially comprises a spring-loaded curveshaped gripping clip, mounted near the boxed-end of a ratchet wrench, which wraps around the opening of the wrench. The spring action of the gripping clip allows it to be easily pulled away from the opening of the wrench and clamped in an out-of-the-way position by means of a clamp or released into a functional gripping position by pushing downward on the clamp's release button. When released, the gripping clip presses against a nut, thereby creating pressure that secures the nut in the opening of the wrench.