Tool Identification Question

[Pirogue]

My Stepfather passed away about 2 months ago and I am taking possession of some of his tools. This is something I collected from the shop but have no Idea hat it is. The only marking is a number 4 on the bottom and the little knob you see is attached to one of the jaws below and is spring loaded.

Anybody know what this is or what it was used for?

Thanks,
Tom

 

[Kayak Jack]

Is it an attaching handle to temporarily hold onto something?

 

[dawallace45]

It's the handle off a old style stove top iron , you would have the iron heating up on the stove and just clip the handle on as needed , some had several irons and swap them over as they cooled , at least mum had several irons still remember her using them on the old Crown wood stove

David

 

[Pirogue]

Thanks Wallace.