These boot stretchers are a great deal for the money.  I used them on an expensive pair of boots belonging to my wife which were a bit tight.  They helped immensely.  The universal joints are plastic so yes, you have to use common sense and a soft touch when tightening them.  I'd also recommend spraying the inside of the boots liberally with boot stretch solution each time you stretch them.  And you don't do it all in one night.  You need to exercise some patience and do it incrementally over a week or two.<br /><br />They won't make a size 7 a size 8, but they can really help with the tight spots if done correctly.