A gripping device for tubular elements includes two gripping arms arranged opposite to each other which together forming an opening having a diameter, transfer elements, at least one piston rod connected to the two gripping arms via the transfer elements, at least one cylinder in which the at least one piston rod is configured to run, a stop device connected to the at least one piston rod, and an adjustment system configured to limit an axial movement of the stop device and thereby the diameter of the opening. The stop device is configured to cooperate with the adjustment system.