a method and apparatus for stabilizing a blow molded plastic preform and container in a blow mold during a demolding operation . the blow mold has a first mold section , a second mold section , and a mandrel . the mandrel cooperates with a pair of spring loaded jaws slidingly coupled to one or both of the mold sections . with the mold sections in their fully open position , the mandrel with an attached preform and / or container travels into the blow mold . during the final stage of closing the mold sections , the jaws contact the finish and restrain the container . as the mold sections begin to open , the jaws prevent any movement of the container relative to the mandrel .