They look like lasting pliers to me, my grandad was an upholsterer and had quite a few variations of them.
https://www.google.co.uk/search?q=la...FUTZGgodQbwKRw
Dave i didn't realise farriers clinched the nail in the shoe, makes sense though probably fall off before leaving the stables if they didn't. i've only ever seen them use blacksmith like tongs whilst adjusting the shoe.
Just a thought what about surgeons vasectomy pliers!! old medical tools are very similar to those used in construction.