*Austria (Styria), c.1850 — Clamshell Boar-Hunting Dagger by K. Börzer, Graz, with Original Leather Scabbard*
A substantial Imperial Austrian/German states boar-hunting dagger (often termed Saufänger or Hirschfänger), dating to around 1850. The broad single-edged blade (approx. 11½ in / 29.2 cm) has a spear-point and retains a pleasing period finish. One face is crisply stamped K. BÖRZER GRAZ, identifying the 19th-century cutler/outfitter Börzer trading in Graz, Styria (almost certainly a quality retailer supplying the regional hunting fraternity and Jagd societies).
The hilt is classic Central-European hunting fashion: a stag-antler grip with ferrule and faceted pommel cap (secured by a nut), squared notched cross-guard and a large scalloped clamshell to protect the hand when dispatching boar.
The original brown leather scabbard survives complete with its large steel throat (with integral side slot for a slim skinning knife—now missing) and reinforced steel chape. Constructional details include decorative tooling to the mounts and copper fixing staples, plus twin belt bars for suspension—exactly what we expect on better-quality examples of the period.
Overall length approx. 17¼ in / 43.8 cm; blade width at forte about 2 in / 5 cm.
Markings: Blade, obverse: K. BÖRZER GRAZ (retailer/maker).
Historical note:
In the Habsburg lands and the German states, hunting was not only essential game-keeping but also a codified aristocratic pastime. Specialized sidearms like this clamshell boar dagger were carried to deliver the finishing thrust on driven boar and stag. Austrian retailers in Graz and Vienna supplied large numbers to foresters and noble hunting parties; stamped retailer names (as here, K. Börzer) are less frequently encountered than Solingen maker marks and are prized for their regional association.
About the name: While detailed archival material is scarce, period-style stamps reading “K. Börzer, Graz” are known on mid-19th-century hunting sidearms and indicate a Graz-based cutler or sporting outfitter active in Styria. The high-quality mounts, skinning-knife provision and robust blade are consistent with such retail trade.
*Condition*
A very honest, complete example. The blade remains bright with light peppering and shallow age staining in places and a few small edge nibbles near the lower third—nothing severe. The stag-antler grip is firm, well-coloured and without cracks; ferrule, clamshell guard and quillons show even, attractive dark patina. Pommel cap and securing nut are correct and undisturbed. The leather scabbard is sound and supple, stitching largely intact with minor scuffs, edge rubs and small losses at the seam where the chape meets the leather from long service. Steel throat and chape show mottled patination and small handling marks; side slot for the auxiliary skinner is present but the knife is absent. Suspension bars are straight and strong. A well-presented piece that has not been over-cleaned. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
£1,500.00Original price was: £1,500.00.£1,100.00Current price is: £1,100.00.
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