Patent ID: 8408439

Claim:
A surgical stapler, comprising: a channel configured to receive a staple cartridge comprising staples removably stored therein, wherein said channel comprises: a distal end; a proximal portion; and a stop; an anvil configured to deform staples ejected from the staple cartridge, wherein said anvil comprises a distal end and a proximal portion, wherein said proximal portion of said anvil is pivotably coupled to said proximal portion of said channel, and wherein said anvil is rotatable between an open position and a closed position; and a closure member movable between a first position and a second position, wherein said closure member is configured to move said anvil between said open position and said closed position when said closure member is moved between said first position and said second position, and wherein said closure member comprises: a body; a first camming portion extending from said body a first distance toward said distal end of said channel, wherein said first camming portion is configured to be at least partially positioned around said anvil when said closure member is in said second position; and a second camming portion extending from said body a second distance toward said distal end of said channel, wherein said first distance is larger than said second distance, and wherein said second camming portion is configured to be at least partially positioned around said channel and adjacent to said stop when said closure member is in said second position.