Abstract: A hydraulically-actuated propellant stimulation downhole tool for hydrocarbon wells. According to one embodiment of the invention, the tool comprises a first section having an internal sidewall defining at least a portion of a flowpath, and a ported outer sidewall and a propellant volume having at least a portion within said first section. An annular portion has at least one chamber having an end positioned adjacent to the propellant volume and an inlet providing a communication path to said flowpath. A detonator assembly is located within each chamber proximal to the propellant volume such that detonation of the assembly causes detonation of the propellant volume. A firing pin is propelled toward the detonation assembly by providing communication between the chamber and the flow path, causing a pressure differential between the pressure isolated ends of the firing pin.

Abstract: A shifting tool and method of shifting a downhole device that requires only a minimal profile or no profile to engage and move the movable portion of the tool. The invention comprises a ported housing assembly and at least one friction pad alignable with said at least one port and radially movable through the port between a first pad position and a second pad position. In the second pad position, the friction pad extends outside said outer diameter of said housing assembly to engage the targeted downhole device. A mandrel positioned through the ported housing has a first section with a first outer diameter and a second section with a second outer diameter, said second outer diameter being greater than said first outer diameter. The mandrel is movable between a first mandrel position and a second mandrel position. In the second mandrel position, the second outer diameter supports the friction pads in the second pad position.