The fixing device and image forming apparatus employ a horizontally moving claw for separating a sheet on which a toner image has been fixed. The claw moves in a horizontally reciprocating manner at a velocity between 0.001 mm/seconds to 0.1 mm/seconds. Moving at that speed, it has been found to reduce scratching of the fixing drum. The device and image forming apparatus also employ a claw having a width between 1.0 mm and 5.0 mm. The claw contacts the drum with a pressure in a range of 3.0.times.9.8 mN to 7.0.times.9.8 mN.