A method for manufacturing an end effector (1) of a surgical device comprises providing the end effector (1) with an articulation lock, providing a control handle (2-4) with an articulation joint actuator (4), and connecting the end effector (1) to the control handle (2-4) at a passive articulating joint (10) such that the end effector (1) is permitted to articulate with respect to the control handle (2-4) about an articulation axis. The articulation joint actuator (4) is operable to selectively connect with and separate from the articulation lock. In an unactuated state of the articulation joint actuator (4), the articulation joint actuator (4) automatically connects with the articulation lock and locks the articulation lock to temporarily prevent further articulation of the end effector (1) and retain the end effector (1) in a desired articulated position, while in an actuated state of the articulation joint actuator (4), the articulation joint actuator (4) disconnects from the articulation lock and unlocks the articulation lock to permit the end effector (1) to articulate.
