What Is This Tool?

[Derek Arita]

My wife found this in her father's tool box. His father was a carpenter, so it could go way back. What is it?http://i63.photobucket.com/albums/h151/derekarita1/image1-5_zpshbucjtfl.jpg (http://s63.photobucket.com/user/derekarita1/media/image1-5_zpshbucjtfl.jpg.html)

[Anthony Albano]

It puts the crimps in pie plates

[Rob Luter]

Maybe an attachment to another tool of some kind?

[Judson Green]

just a stab... i think its something to do with bricklaying. like a gauge of sorts.

[Nick Stokes]

Derek, based on your hand planes... I have to say I am disappointed in seeing some dirt on this tool. Are you slipping? I was under the impression your shop was a dust free environment.

My guess: nutcracker.

[Richard Line]

Clearly it's a brain teaser, as that is what it is doing to us.

[Derek Arita]

Lol....then you'd be sorely disappointed if you did see my shop. Where do you think all that dirt, rust and old paint goes!

[Pat Barry]

I'd sure like to see another picture of the bottom side

[Rob Lee]

Part of a door lock mortising tool/set....?

[Derek Arita]

other side....http://i63.photobucket.com/albums/h151/derekarita1/unnamed_zpstwynvprl.jpg (http://s63.photobucket.com/user/derekarita1/media/unnamed_zpstwynvprl.jpg.html)

[Wes Harper]

I believe it's for door hinge gains.

[bill howes]

I believe it's for door hinge gains.
I agree. Here are pictures of one my son picked up for me at an auction333990I seem to be able to load only one picture
Bill

[bill howes]

333992A picture of the bottom

[Derek Arita]

That's it! How's it work?

[Brian Ashton]

That's it! How's it work?


Looks like by your pic youre missing some key parts.

[bill howes]

Derek
If you google Waller hinge mortising machine you will see the original patent and a description of how it works. I think the one you have is missing the lever handle and the piece that fits against the opposite side of the door jamb
Regards Bill