what is this ( new picture)

[puggsley]

Both things go together the needle looking thing goes inside the case there is some kind of thin rope threaded through the needle and the needle point slides in and out so it fits in the case it has a patant date on it it is october 15 1862.

 

[junkdigger]

Looks to me to be a Civil War era sewing kit ? Some thread and buttons would fit the container on the left. And we know very well that they lost a lot of buttons in that war ! I think sewing kits have been government issue for a long time.

 

[fibberjibber]

I am not so sure the two go together. If the needle retracts, why would you need an additional hard case? The heavy gauge of the needle and the (linen?) thread indicates it was probably used to sew canvas. I would bet it was carried for repairs instead of used for initial production. The "case" is excruciatingly familiar but I can't place it yet. Are there any wear patterns on it? I am wondering if something slid into it. Are there any wear marks or solder points on the back of the case?
-e

 

[silverswede]

Maybe a fishing gill net repair kit?

 

[Felinepeachy]

Leather repair maybe?

 

[Montana Jim]

Would love to see some more pictures... the ends of the tub thing? Maybe the back of the pouch looking thing?

 

[Montana Jim]

It looks like there are letters on the front of the container thing...

I see an "S" in big block letter center-right?

 

[cosmic]

Think its a leather awl...

 

[truckinbutch]

I'd go for a leather awl myself.Have used a more modern tool for lockstitching long seams in leatherwork.