Hoplophoneus primaevus was one of the more successful Nimravid saber-toothed ‘cats’. Larger than Dinictis, Hoplophoneus‘s large sabers and elongated flange on the lower jaw probably made the throat bite more effective. With their strong neck, legs and highly developed retractable claws primaevus would have been a formidable predator; though smaller than occidentalis they probably hunted for similar food. Its prey would have included oreodonts, horses, and rhinoceroses.

Our replica is molded from one of the best Hoplophoneus skulls we’ve seen. The original fossil was a very well preserved older individual. All its teeth were found (quite rare) and it was over 90% complete.

Display Replicas are painted by our experts to match the original fossil’s coloration. Solid Color Replicas are unmounted casts suitable for research or reference purposes. It is painted a single color. Note: some portions of the original fossil may have been scientifically restored. Base may vary from picture.