British Pattern 1888 Mk I Type II Lee Metford Rifle Bayonet.
This scarce bayonet is in excellent condition and is highly collectable. The 303mm double-edged blade is in excellent condition and is marked on the ricasso with the production date, 10 ‘95 (October 1895). The maker’s name, Sanderson, of Sheffield is clearly marked below the production date.
The obverse ricasso is marked with a Birmingham inspection mark, the British War Department broad arrow, and “WD” and a bend test stamp. There is also a reissue mark and the date stamp ’15 for 1915, showing that this bayonet was reissued for service during World War 1.
The blade spine bears two Sheffield inspection stamps. The blade remains bright and free of rust or damage.
The wooden grip is firm and showing minimal age related wear with two large brass rivets positioned close together. The wooden hilt scales are drilled with an oil hole on both sides above the top rivet. The pommel bears the weapon or issue number “745”. The press-stud locking mechanism is in good working order.
The bayonet is complete with its matching black leather scabbard, which is in excellent condition. There is minimal, mild tarnish on the steel furniture. The black leather is in excellent condition and the stitching is intact and firm. The leather is stamped with the War Department broad arrow and "WD" mark as well as the date '95 and two inspection marks.
The over-all length of the bayonet in the scabbard is 440mm. The bayonet is held firmly within the scabbard.
