Two feet long with that linkage would inevitably mean that it would be impossible to use one handed, which cuts down the likelihood of it being a hand tool for farriers or blacksmiths, who mostly use one handed tools for all but the heaviest work.

This tool doesn't look hefty enough for heavy industry application.

This would mean two men, with one holding something while the other used the tool.

Offhand, I can't think of any function in a blacksmith shop which would fit that tool.

It's not a de-horning tool, as the action would split horns lengthwise, not across.

Crimping is the most convincing possibility offered so far, and would fit with the sheer power of that double linkage.

What's the betting we're all wrong?

Don T.