what is it? Old Craftsman handle to something

[1982fxr]

found in a toolbox...last couple patent #'s are worn off

 

[454ragtop]

Looks like it is to hold either a hacksaw blade or a file. Does twisting the end allow the jaws to spread apart?
Jim

 

[blind]

File handle

 

[1982fxr]

what kind of a file goes into that?

file handle was first thing i thought too, but...

 

[kxxr]

File/tool handle for sure.
http://www.midwayusa.com/product/583514/general-tools-file-handle

 

[lbgradwell]

It was intended as a more general holder of tools as opposed to a specific use...

This invention relates to tool holders particularly adapted for receiving and holding the Shanks, tangs or end portions of tools. While the invention is not to be necessarily so limited, the tool holder is suitable for use in connection with such tools as files, knife blades, saw blades, chisels, screw drivers and the like. Holders or handles have been developed heretofore for use in connection with such tools but their usage has been more or less limited to certain specific types of tools and they have not been generally adapted for use with tools having shanks, tangs, or end portions of diverse sizes and shapes, such as round, at, polygonal, parallel sided and tapered sided.

It is the general object of the present invention, therefore, to provide a new and improved tool holder which is capable of receiving and securely holding tools having shank, or end portions of a wide variety of different sizes and shapes.

 

[lbgradwell]

What are the marks directly to the left and right of the "MADE IN USA"? Can you post a clearer photo?

 

[justme-]

It was intended as a more general holder of tools as opposed to a specific use...

this ^^
I have one - was my fathers and is from sometime in the 60's. Great for some applications, too large for me in others. Seen it sold as a file handle, but will hold many things from files to as mentioned saw blades (hack saw, jig saw, recip saw). I used it quite often for chain saw files growing up.

 

[JUNK-MAN]

A holder/handle for a file or saw blade.

 

[4xdog]

File/tool handle for sure.
http://www.midwayusa.com/product/583514/general-tools-file-handle

Good job!

 

[Swan]

4xdog, is that a US General tool?

 

[4xdog]

It's made by General Tools -- the image is from kxxr's original link. Full credit to him. Legit USA tool company, sourcing from many US producers.