A shock compression tool has a first end assembly defining a main axis and a first engaging surface, a second end assembly the second end assembly defining second and third engaging surfaces. The second end assembly is supported for movement along the main axis relative to the first end assembly. A drive system displaces the second end assembly along the main axis relative to the first end assembly such that a distance between the first engaging surface and the second engaging surface may be altered, and a distance between the first engaging surface and the third engaging surface may be altered. The first engaging surface and the second engaging surface define a first reference line. The first engaging surface and the third engaging surface define a second reference line. At least a portion of the first reference line is spaced from at least a portion of the second reference line.