What is this

[bob starkey]

No name on it. Rosewood handle and snug fitting cap and metal jaws.
Thanks

[Nicholas Lawrence]

Looks like a multi tool to me Bob. Would have had screwdriver bits, an awl point, maybe a small saw blade, and a couple of drill bits in the handle.

[Jim Ritter]

+1 it's a multi tool. I have a couple with all the bits. I'll take a pic today.
jim

[Don Rogers]

It's a small chuck - used in a variety of ways. It can hold small tools or anything else that will fit in it's jaws.
Examples would be reamers, drills, countersinks - tools that could be used by hand.

I have several with collet type jaws and metal handles, each for a small range of diameters. I have also
used small 3 jaw chucks Without handles to hold tools for hand countersinking small holes in metal

I would think that it is used for metal work more than woodwork. Keep it - it will come in handy some day.

[george wilson]

In the old days,multi tools were popular. Even in the 18th. C.. Made for gentlemen to use for small household repairs. Tools were made for gentlemen,and they were always smaller than regular tools for workmen.

[Glen Canaday]

I think nowadays we call them a 'pin vise'.

[steven c newman]

Been using mine as a file holder, for when I file saws
331727
Have lost the cap for it. It came with a nail/tack puller. This one uses a thumbscrew to tighten onto things.

[Ray Selinger]

Correct name is Hollow Handed Woodworking Tool, at least that what J.S. Fray called them. One of mine has an 1888 patient date.

[Jim Koepke]

I have a few of those. I have heard them called tool holders.

One of mine has a spool and the handle carries needles. Not sure if it was for repairing sails, shoes or what.

jtk

[Ray Selinger]

Jim, you are right, I've used one for repairing canvas on a tent trailer. I've heard them called Yankee sewing awl.

[Nicholas Lawrence]

Now that is not a bad idea. You see a lot of them missing the tools.

[Jim Koepke]

Now that is not a bad idea. You see a lot of them missing the tools.

I used to watch for odd boxes of tools and have a few extras somewhere. I think they are kind of like missing socks, the slitter and adjustable fence lock on a Stanley #45.

The ones in my accumulation seem to have at least three different bit holding methods.

jtk