Tool for gripping tubular items

A tool for gripping a tubular workpiece comprises : a land element for reacting compressive load against an end face of the workpiece; grip elements and grip element carrier means; a main body with means for converting axial motion of the tool relative to the workpiece into radial movement of the grip elements from a retracted position to an engaged position exerting radial load on the workpiece; and retractor means for retracting the grip elements from the workpiece the tool is displaced axially away from the workpiece. The grip element carrier means may comprise a cylindrical cage with the grip elements being radially slidable within circumferentially-spaced windows in the cage. The means for converting axial movement and load into radial movement and load may comprise a cone or ramp surface that bears against the grip elements such that radial loads from the grip surfaces are carried through the main body.