Hulka-type clip applicator

In an applicator for inserting and locking a Hulka-type clip that comprises a pair of pivoted jaws, namely an upper jaw and a lower jaw, and a generally U-shaped spring which fits over the jaws and can be slid forwards from a first, "clip open" position to a second "clip locked" position, wherein the applicator comprises:

• a cradle for holding the lower jaw of the clip;
• a detent for preventing the clip falling out of the cradle;
• a first ram for riding along the top of the upper jaw of the clip and closing the clip, and
• a second ram for engaging the rear end of the spring of the clip and pushing it forward into its locking position once the clip have been closed by the first ram, the improvement wherein the forward end of said first ram is provided with transversely-spaced jaw-engaging surfaces that engage spaced lateral portions of the top of the upper jaw, said first ram being free from engagement with the spring of the clip during the closing and locking of the clip.