Metal working tool?

[digdug67]

Hi folks, found this old tool in a box with other metal working tools (snips etc.). Measures 10 1/4" in length. Wondering about those two holes at the top, thanks!

[mikeswrenches]

They look like fencing pliers/tool. The holes were for pulling staples.
It would help if you had more light on the object when you take your pictures...and with that said, Welcome to Tool Talk fromy sunny and warm Florida.
I thought these were patented so looked and found it. The link is below. I happen to have a pair too, which is the only reason I knew what they were.

https://free.patentfetcher.com/GetPatentPDF.php?f=Pats/US/14/95/US1495028.pdf

Mike

[digdug67]

Thanks @mikeswrenches! I love those patent illustrations because they are always so detailed. The sides of the head could absolutely be used as a hammer, it has some good weight to it :)

[mvwcnews]

Several fencing pliers patents have been added to DATAMP, and ads / illustrations shown in the Missouri Valley Wrench Club Newsletter over the years.  And of course many of them are shown in the Smith's COLLECTORS GUIDE FOR FENCING TOOLS.
Since this one has a "flat" face with holes toward the edges rather than the "high center" face in the SAYRE patent cited, I'd vote for Utica Drop Forge & Tool Co. fencing pliers based on A.H. Russell patent 545,537 ( http://www.datamp.org/patents/displayPatent.php?number=545537&typeCode=0 ) which has the flat face & side holes.

[digdug67]

@mvwcnews thanks! When I looked at the first pic I didn't think it was right, but the other 3 show that's it :)