a tool for adjusting a grip . the tool includes a tubular section for containing the grip while receiving a cable . a first stop is positioned in or near a first end of the tubular section to provide an opening for introducing the cable into the tubular section while the grip is contained in the tool . one of first and second stops is arranged for displacement along the longitudinal axis with respect to the other stop . with the grip positioned between the first and second stops , when one of the stops is displaced toward the other stop a force is applied against the grip , causing the size of the bore to increase and the length of the grip to be contracted .