Rare Number 5 Mark II bayonet (Mk 1 bayonets had only a single screw holding the wooden grips in place), for the No.5 Mk 1 Lee Enfield. The rifle had a shorter barrel and was lighter in weight, purposely made for airborne troops in the European theatre of World War II. Despite its initial purpose, the No.5 carbine saw most of its service in post war colonial conflicts such as the Malayan Emergency, earning it the nickname “Jungle Carbine.”
Production of the No.5 bayonet began in March 1944, and finished in December 1947.
The 203mm clip-point Bowie blade has a single edge and long single fuller below the rounded spine. The blade is in good condition and has been service sharpened. The blade has scratches and minor marks consistent with use. The ricasso retains its original blueing and bears a circular punch mark.
The wrap around wooden grips are in good condition. The grips show minor use marks and are stamped with the War Department Broad Arrow mark and what looks like a Poole inspection stamp.
The press-stud locking mechanism works perfectly and the press-stud is stamped with the War Department arrow.
The bayonet is without a scabbard. The same pattern scabbard was used for the No.5, No.7 and No.9 bayonets, so it is easy to source one.
