What is that moving metal part on Antique carving forks.?

Question

I have noticed that on most old carving forks, between the tines and the handle there is a metal piece that is pinned and rotates. What is this thing? I would guess it is there to stop the fork from going to far into the meat, but these forks today don't have this. Thanks in advance for you help.

Answer 1

I have always thought it is to stop the meat slipping down too far and burning the cook when transferring the joint from the roasting tin to the plate. I have a modern carving fork and it has this movable part.