Self-aligning handling or storing device having side or top actuation and methods of use therefor

A device for handling or storing one or more items, comprising:

• a pair of generally rigid jaw members each having a hinge end and an outer end, the jaw members being connected together at their hinge ends, such that the jaw members (i) have a first, open position in which the outer ends are spaced apart to define a receiving space and inner surfaces of the jaws are generally not facing one another, (ii) have a plurality of second, closed positions in which the outer ends are nearer to one another and inner surfaces of the jaws are in confronting relationship, and (iii) are self aligned such that the outer ends automatically engage one another upon applying pressure upon the outer surfaces, and
• an engagement device incorporated into an outer end of one jaw member, having an engaging position in which the engagement device is engaged to an outer surface of the other jaw member, and a disengaged position, the engagement device including a release member that is moveable toward the hinge ends of the jaw members to move the engagement device between the engaging and a disengaged position.