A method for installing compression connectors of various sizes and types on the end of a coaxial cable utilizes a tool having a base mounting a pair of movable anvils for engaging two different lengths of connectors. The movable anvils define an aperture which is shaped to permit easy entry and exit of a cable while still applying a suitable retention force to an inserted cable. A slidably mounted plunger cooperates with the anvils to compress a connector. One of the anvils has an aperture size that permits the anvil to squeeze or pinch an inserted cable and thereby restrain a cable longitudinally during initial seating of the connector onto a cable by means of the plunger.