Q. I find it rather difficult to avoid torsion when gripping flexible specimen like paper. Any tips?

A: Depending on the style of grips, torsion should not be an issue. To minimize the torsion, ensure proper alignment of the grips. Bringing the upper and lower grips closer together will allow you to determine if they are properly aligned. Since clamping thin, flexible specimens can be awkward, I find that closing the specimen in the upper grip first allows me to put a slight tension on the specimen; this helps ensure it will be evenly loaded while closing the lower grip.

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