A device and method for gripping a handrail or other object having a top and a bottom surface. The device includes a handle for gripping by a user. A fixed member is coupled to the handle for engaging one of the top and bottom surfaces of the handrail, and a movable member is movably coupled to the handle for engaging the other of the top and bottom surfaces of the handrail. An actuator coupled to the handle controls the movement of the movable member, the actuator allowing for repositioning and locking of the device with respect to the handrail. When the device is locked with respect to the handrail the fixed member and movable member engage the top and bottom surfaces of the handrail such that a force tangential to the handrail can be applied to the handle without the device sliding on the handrail.