Abstract (eng)
The following thesis addresses a previously overlooked chapter of Southern Carinthian history, focusing on the gunsmiths of Ferlach/Borovlje during the Second World War. Internationally well known for their precision in handcraft, the traditional manufacturers of hunting rifles look back on more than 500 years of history. However, major publications often present a big part of history, while lacking in-depth research on the period of the second world war. The research interest centers on the influence of National Socialism and wartime events on the development of gunsmithing firms. Utilizing eight narrative interviews involving nine individuals, including eyewitnesses, historians, and experts, qualitative content analysis following the method of Kuckartz was employed. Additionally, numerous archival sources and privately held documents were consulted. Key findings include debunking the prevalent myth that hunting rifle production ceased during the Second World War. Production persisted, unaffected by metal supply constraints. Family-owned businesses largely continued crafting precision hunting rifles for private clients, while larger manufacturers were integrated into the German arms industry. However, it is found that the individual situations of these businesses were diverse. While some gunsmiths and their families fell victim to national socialist persecution, others collaborated closely with the Wehrmacht or even engaged in political activities. Peripheral connections are found with the resistance movement against National Socialism active in the region. The gained results and the analysis of documents and narratives constitute an attempt to reconstruct this era and encourage regional engagement with the subject matter.