Cryptic crossword clue
Mainstay of knocking heads to clinch up win 8

The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 8 letter word LINCHPIN

L
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P
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Buddy explains!

The straight part
We know that "Mainstay" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case mainstay = linchpin.
The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.
This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.

What does LINCHPIN mean?

LINCHPIN noun
  1. A pin inserted through holes at the end of an axle or shaft, so as to secure a wheel or shaft-mounted device.
  2. A central cohesive source of stability and security; a person or thing that is critical to a system or organisation.

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