The Inglefield clip was invented by Lieutenant Edward Inglefield RN in the 1890s, it has been standard issue to British warships since 1895.
The idea was to make a reliable and fast way of assembling a hoist of signal flags, which they do very well.
I have had a long involvement with these clips, mostly for flags, but they have other uses, for example the West Lancashire Seabird One Design (a half rater) use the clips for their spinnaker halyard attachment to the sail, and I have seen a big version cut out of steel plate for a special job.
The standard clips are made from brass, these medium size nylon ones are clearly not as strong as brass, but they are good for small flags.
A further advantage is the avoidance of metallic stains on the bunting.
I don't think they would be strong enough for a big flag in windy conditions, but that isnt what i purchased them for.
