A surgical fastening apparatus includes a handle, an elongated member extending distally from the handle and a fastener applier and anvil head disposed at the distal end of the elongated member. The elongated member defines a distal offset end portion upon which the fastener applier and the anvil head are mounted. The offset end portion is angularly oriented with respect to the axis of the instrument at a predetermined fixed angle (e.g., either 45°, 60° and 75° relative to the axis of the instrument) thereby positioning the fastener applier and the anvil head at the fixed angle This feature facilitates positioning of the tissue with respect to the instrument and enhances visual access to the tissue when appropriately disposed within the fastener applier and the anvil head. Various mechanisms for effectuating the clamping of the tissue between the fastener holder and anvil, and the firing of the instrument are disclosed.