What is it?

[Re3iever]

I think it's a tool for making lead balls - overall length is 5.5" , width at the widest point of the handles is 1.75". There is a clipping tool built into the handles just behind the hinge point. The inside 'scoop' is roughly 5/8" across and the opening is ~3/16". See links to photo's below.

There is also something like a maker's mark on the handle behind the hinge pivot - see the close up pic.

https://www.dropbox.com/s/jx8yd090ydy3qew/Lead%20Ball2.jpg?dl=0

https://www.dropbox.com/s/pcf5c9qh9osga9z/Lead%20Ball3.jpg?dl=0

https://www.dropbox.com/s/c31xgg66gb1h4a3/Lead%20Ball1.jpg?dl=0

https://www.dropbox.com/s/cl59dfwj5blr7m6/Lead%20Ball4.jpg?dl=0

Thanks, Retreever

 

[B_noser]

It's a ball mould for casting roundball. The stamp on the handle indicates the number of balls (18) per pound.

 

[Re3iever]

It's a ball mould for casting roundball. The stamp on the handle indicates the number of balls (18) per pound.

Thank B_Noser, is it an antique, what would have fired something that size?

 

[B_noser]

Eighteen ball per pound is about 0.63", so the balls would most likely have been used in a smooth bore muzzle loader equivalent to about a 20 gauge.

 

[B_noser]

It is an antique, but they don't hold much value in this neck of the woods.