Methods and devices are provided for controlling rotation and actuation of an end effector on a surgical fastening device. In an exemplary embodiment, a single cable actuator is provided and is movable between a first position, in which it is effective to rotate an end effector without actuating (i.e., closing and firing) the end effector, and a second position, in which it is effective to actuate the end effector without rotating the end effector. The single cable can also be effective to close opposed jaws of the end effector.