Unusual Antique Multi-Tool Horseman’s Farrier’s Knife with Horn Grip c1880

Here on offer is a rare and unusual example of an antique multi-tool horseman’s farrier’s knife with horn grip plates, circa 1880.

This fine example has various tools, being: two blades, corkscrew, rectangular spike/punch, flat head screwdriver tip and a long hook for cleaning horse hooves.

What is unusual about this knife is the fact the two blades are made by different makers.

The larger blade has been well used and sharpened away over the years and on one side of its ricasso it is stamped:

G. BUTLER
& Co
SHEFFIELD

The on the smaller blade it is stamped on one side on the ricasso with:

WALKER & Co
SHEFFIELD

The smaller blade is in great condition and retains its original size and shape, with a sharp cutting edge.

Both blades now show some aged “greying/staining” and fine scratch marks to the blade finish, but I think this would clean up a bit brighter, if that is your preference.

I have seen these knives before, normally made by G. Butler. I can only assume that when they made this knife they didn’t have their own smaller blades available and therefore “popped down the road” and acquired some from Walker & Co?

Back in the Victorian times, there were many blades manufacture’s all crammed into a small area of Sheffield, so trading/buying blades from each other was not unheard of.

The grip slabs look to be either made from smooth jigged bone or possibly stag antler. Both now have a glass like finish and there is just a small section missing near the bail on one side.

They are held in place by four metal pins with a nickel silver bolster at one end and a bras bail at the other.

Inset on the front is an elongated oval shaped shield that could be engraved with the owner’s initials.

All the tools open and close with a strong spring (apart from the hook) and no wobble.

This example will make a great addition to any antique knife collection and will only increase in value.

The larger blade measures 2” (5.1cm) with a 1.5” (3.8cm) cutting edge. The smaller bald measures 1.9” (4.8cm) with a 1.5” (3.8cm) cutting edge. When closed the knife measures 3.6” (9.2cm), excluding the bail.

It weighs 91g.

Please see my pictures for the details of the condition, which complement this description.

Please see my TERMS OF BUSINESS regarding Deliver Charges and Insurance regarding additional insurance cover, should you require it, BEFORE the item is dispatched.

The responsibility lies with the customer to check with your Customs restrictions that this item can be imported into your country.

Code: 52080