The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48:

Grappling \Grap"pling\, n.
   1. A laying fast ho1d of; also, that by which anything is
      seized and held, a grapnel.
      [1913 Webster]

   2. A grapple; a struggle. A match for yards in fight, in
      grappling for the bear. --Dryden.
      [1913 Webster]

   Grappling iron, a hooked iron used for grappling and
      holding fast a vessel or other object.

   Grappling tongs, broad-mouthed tongs for gathering oysters.
      [1913 Webster]