Caucasian Belt Multi-Tools?

[cyten]

Originally Posted by Turkoman.khan

This is a screwdriver - an object with which, at the right time, they tightened the bolts on the gun, and generally monitored its good condition. The screwdriver had nothing to do with the shashka and dagger. A screwdriver hung on the belt on the right side. With the transition to modern firearms became an element of decor, which was made of silver. Small decorative screwdrivers have turned into wolves, dogs and dragons.

Surely these slots served some purpose?

[Turkoman.khan]

Originally Posted by cyten

Surely these slots served some purpose?

Made of silver, these were exclusively decorative elements.

[cyten]

Originally Posted by Turkoman.khan

Made of silver, these were exclusively decorative elements.

Sure, the silver ones are decorative. However, take a look at the first post, there many made from Iron and Steel and utilitarian

[Turkoman.khan]

Originally Posted by cyten

Sure, the silver ones are decorative. However, take a look at the first post, there many made from Iron and Steel and utilitarian

Of course, from iron are utilitarian. They performed the function of a screwdriver, as I wrote in response to the first post.

[cyten]

Originally Posted by Turkoman.khan

Of course, from iron are utilitarian. They performed the function of a screwdriver, as I wrote in response to the first post.

I understand that the part that is circled in red is used as a screwdriver, but I'm wondering about the part that is circled in yellow? And what is the proper name for these pieces in Russian or Caucasian languages?

[Turkoman.khan]

Originally Posted by cyten

I understand that the part that is circled in red is used as a screwdriver, but I'm wondering about the part that is circled in yellow? And what is the proper name for these pieces in Russian or Caucasian languages?

Slots make the screwdriver lighter and perform a decorative function. There are archaic Caucasian screwdrivers without through slots. They were tied to a belt on a thin and long leather strap.
Unfortunately, I do not know how these screwdrivers are called in Russian and Caucasian languages.

[Edward C.]

A black powder muzzleloading enthusiast may know what these are.

The "hook" or right angle extension on one end might be some form of bullet starter.
The hinged brass section of one of them looks a lot like a bullet starter, as it would not scar the bore.
With the exception of the more refined machined version, where a separate piece is attached as a screwdriver blade, the other end on these does not look slim enough to be a screw driver. Is there a view from another angle?

And why the ceremonial versions, and the one in a french fitted case?

It is also possible this implement has nothing to do with weaponry.

[Edward C.]

One other thought- this item may have to do with preparing the cartridge in use-
Does one end of a sealed paper cartridge need to be punctured and the charge poured in the barrel?
Is the hole to locate the tool over the ball, sitting on the end of the barrel, so more pressure can be applied to start it in the bore?
A maintenance tool does not need to be carried close to hand at all times..
A fighting tool does.

Just tossing some ideas out.

This thing has a definite purpose, and it is likely the screwdriver is a ancillary function, not a primary one.