This answer points out this page
from Millennium Falcon Haynes Manual which refers to the two projections on the bows of all YT-1300 Correlian Freighters as mandibles.
Science Fiction & Fantasy Stack Exchange is a question and answer site for science fiction and fantasy enthusiasts. It only takes a minute to sign up.
Sign up to join this communityThis answer points out this page
from Millennium Falcon Haynes Manual which refers to the two projections on the bows of all YT-1300 Correlian Freighters as mandibles.
According to the book "Incredible Cross-Sections of Star Wars: The Ultimate Guide to Star Wars Vehicles and Spacecraft", the mandibles hold various sensors and an anti-concussion field generator. Three is also the freight barge clamp so the YT-1300 can act like a barge or tugboat and push around large cargo. Also on the port mandible there is the shield generator and projector. On the inner side of the mandibles there is a freight loading arm. Click on the image to see a larger version.
Another purpose is for moving freight around, where the mandibles attach to cargo and push them around, as shown here:
The Falcon, like other ships in its class can be used as a cargo pusher. The (canon) Star Wars: Rebel Files has an image of a newer YT-model freighter moving what appears to be a smaller ship.