Here are some pics after cleaning. No opening on end so not pliers or flippers. Too thin to be a bullet mold, I think. Maybe a caliper or other measuring tool (?). Any input is greatly appreciated. Thanks for looking!
Since the top is a hinge of sorts and not teethed or sharp like pliers, I'm gonna concur with calipers, even though the points don't look right. Maybe they broke off.
Ice block tongs? household use for the antique real ice /icebox? just a thought. Another idea would be something a blacksmith used to retrieve metal from the coals they look hand forged no machining very cool old piece.