Gripper device for a tufting machine

A gripper device in accordance with the invention comprises a gripper ( 3 ) and a counter knife element ( 4 ) that are fabricated separately and joined. As a result of this, optimal material combinations are possible, which will deal with both types of wear, namely between the gripper ( 3 ) and the tufting needle ( 5 ), on the one hand, and between the knife ( 6 ) and the counter knife element ( 4 ), on the other hand. The gripper module ( 1 ) accommodates the counter knife element ( 4 ), which, in turn, supports the gripper ( 3 ). The two parts may be joined by caulking, cementing, riveting,screwing or similar measures, or they may be cast together in the gripper module ( 1 ). The cutting of the loop is done exclusively between the counter knife element ( 4 ) and the knife ( 6 ).