What could this be? And what was it used for?

It’s a hand clamp/vise.

Works great for small parts that are hard to hold. You could use it with the belt sander for example.

Here’s one that Micro-Mark sells:

http://www.ares-server.com/Ares/Ares.asp?MerchantID=RET01229&Action=Catalog&Type=Product&ID=84018

-- Gary, East TX -- The longest journey begins with a single step.

Well, Gary took the fun out of the game, I was going to say it looks like a mid 1800’s dentist kit. =)

-- Thuan

That looks like a nice brace and bit /hand drill set though. I would use it.

-- Urban logger, http://nelsonwoodworks.biz/

Looks like the little hand vise might have a hollow handle. Try to twist the end off and see if there’s anything inside.

-- Paul, Texas

Looks like it could also be an extra handle for the brace and bit.

-- "Ya but what does he know anyhow?"

Gary and Paul got it….lol
The handle contains very old but in great shape….chisle type bits. They used it for carving.
Jim

-- Can't never could do anything, to try is to advance.

first one I’ve ever seen. If I come across one now I’ll know not to throw it back into the pile thinking it is a broken piece off of something else…lol

-- JJohn

Looks like some torture implement. A thumb screw perhaps. LOL

-- Grumpy - "Always look on the bright side of life"- Monty Python

jim, thanks for asking, I found one of those in my dad’s tools and was wondering if he ever worked in munchkin land. lol