Combination Tool
Date1600s
Mediumsteel
Dimensions21 × 13 cm (8 1/4 × 5 1/8 in.), 2 lb, 2 oz (weight)
ClassificationsArms and Armor
Credit LineThe John Woodman Higgins Armory Collection
Terms
Object number2014.560
DescriptionOf robust steel stock. Head combines claw-hammer with end-cutting pliers; at base of the arms is another claw and a block (use unclear). Constructed of two arms, secured at pivot-point by a bolt and wing-nut.The cutting blades of the pliers are brazed in place, and likely of heat-treated steel. That on the claw arm consists of a thin triangle of steel, and probably represents the original configuration. That on the hammer arm is rectangular, and there seems to be one or two brazed or soldered repairs on this side.
The nut and bolt are hand-cut; the shaft toward the head has been formed with sharp flanges diametrically opposed to each other that seat into corresponding notches in the pivot-point hole on the hammerhead arm.
Adorned with moulding and balustering, with wavecrest-like curl-overs toward the upper and lower ends of both arms. There is some wear and damage on the top face.
Label TextMr. Higgins' metalworking interests logically extended to the tools used in its manufacture and maintenance. This tool, possibly a toolmaker's masterpiece, combining claw hammer, cutters and pry bar, was among his more unusual acquisitions.ProvenancePurchased by Museum from Kimball Arms Company (Woburn, MA) on October 7, 1944. Collection transfer from Higgins Armory, Janaury 2014.
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