The design and use of a divergent obstetrical forceps, which was developed at the Staatliche Frauenklinik und Hebammenschule in Bamberg by Sipli and Krone are presented. The major advantage associated with the use of this instrument is that it permits the exertion of a limited constant application force (max 300 g) on the fetal head. Thus, compression injuries are effectively prevented and slippage of the forceps with resultant trauma is precluded. The Bamberg forceps was evaluated at the Frauenklinik und Poliklinik der Technischen Universität München and at the Staatliche Frauenklinik und Hebammenschule Bamberg, Federal Republic of Germany. An evaluation of 483 cases where this forceps was used is presented. No serious complications directly attributable to the use of this instrument could be documented.