Having a debate with a few friends and we are trying to figure this one out. We've guessed everything from an hog/cattle ear piecer for tags to walnut cruncher. So, I'd like to see if anyone knows what it really is.

Just saw one on MJD's next sale,perhaps lot#547- PATENT COMBINATION TOOL AND GLASS CUTTER by Benjamin F. Adams of Springfield, Massachusetts. This device, which includes a corkscrew, was patented by Adams on June 29, 1880.

https://www.mjdtools.com/AuctionList.php?axcode=IL14

Hmmm, the device pictured does not look anything like MJD lot #547, or the Benjamin Adams patent tool on Datamp either..? Was this the one you meant to refer to Papaw?


patent 229,228 photo from Datamp

Pointy heart shaped part looks like a fleam....

Could it be for grafting trees?

Someone on here recently said that most odd tools that cannot be readily identified end up being leather tools. 

I looked in Salaman, and these pliers look very similar to pliers/tongs that are used for handling and lifting heavy hides.  They did not have the triangular thing, but I can see where that would give you extra grip in addition to the front jaws.  Is the arm on the back a locking mechanism?  That would also help if used for that purpose.

As usual these days, my memory failed me. I thought I had chosen the right tool picture. Pretty sure I saw one of those on MJD's auction.

Pointed blade looks like it could be used for opening oysters - how big is the tool when fully open??

The end on Plyerman's image is a pipe reamer (smoking/tobacco type of pipe)

Here's a WAG , tobacco pliers. The blade cuts the cigars , the tooth end pulls the plug ?
The only tobacco pliers I colud find were PT# 499539

Can opener. I think I saw this recently on Facebook on the antique and vintage tools society page.