Yes. It is used by squeezing.

The tool in my pic does only one of the mechanical functions that the zip tie gun does and it has a very specific application in a very specific craft.

What is it?

Fair enough. Your dad would probably get it pretty quickly.

It is a tension tightener for hay bale twine management

Nope.

i didnt know how a cable tie gun worked but luckily nose ring jill had a lovely demo. i am a fan of nose ring jill.

Is it one of those doodads to remove anti-shoplifting devices from clothing or cd's

Nope.

Note that I said that it's purpose is used in a specific craft. Figure out what types of craftsmen would use it and you can identify the tool.