Always seem to run across pliers that are "different". Besides the standard slip-joint and rib-joint adjustable ones (which are made by just about everyone), I come across odd and weird pliers all the time. Maybe some company thought this design would take off? Maybe they were just trying to break into the market with something unique? Maybe it was some backyard mechanic who took a standard tool and modded it for some use, and it fell into the hands of a marketing agent?
Post up your pliers. Big, small, nice, ugly, standard or weird. We want to see them all!
First up are what are called "wrenching pliers". Made by Proto (and P&C) for a few years in the late 50's/early 60's, they are a hybrid design between a slip joint and adjustable pliers. Very strong clamping force.
Proto #234
http://www.datamp.org/patents/displayPatent.php?number=2600512&typeCode=0