What is this tool I found at a thrift store? - midwest.social

The two arms are sprung so that as you push on the handle they separate, and then return to position. [https://midwest.social/pictrs/image/63e672c9-3654-4736-a5f2-75515104bda8.jpeg] [https://midwest.social/pictrs/image/f71be20b-795a-4fef-a7c9-6f9a278efde0.jpeg]