German WW1 nahkampfmesser, meaning “close combat knife,” come in a variety of similar styles and by various makers. These knives were usually private purchase items – as was the case with the allied forces, and some, like this example are re-worked, army issue bayonets. This example began as a S1884 Mauser bayonet which then had the blade and scabbard shortened for trench combat.
The blade was shortened to 170mm and is single-edged with a flat spine. The blade terminates in a sharpened, double-edged spear point. The conversion was likely to have been done in the trenches, with more attention paid to utility than aesthetics. The elongated spear point being ideal for penetrating. Necessary for the close quarter battle of trench warfare. The blade shows re-working and sharpening scratches and retains a fighting edge.
The ricasso bears a worn logo for the maker of the original bayonet and the spine is stamped with a crowned inspection mark.
The steel pommel bears a crowned inspection mark. The absence of a flash protector along the spine of the tang helps date the conversion to pre-1916, at which time a steel flash protector was welded to the backs of the S1884 bayonets to prevent the wooden scales burning when the rifle was discharged. The wooden scales are in good condition with age and use related marks and wear. The press-stud mechanism is in good working order, allowing the trench knife to still function as a bayonet if required. This supports the idea that the conversion was carried out in the trenches, re-working an issued bayonet. The soldier still being able to comply with an order to “fix bayonets.”
The trench fighting knife is complete with its shortened steel scabbard. The original scabbard was cut and the throat and frog hook braised back into position. The job was well done and the scabbard is in good condition. The knife sheathes and draws smoothly and is held firmly within the scabbard.
This is a good and scarce example of a German WW1 trench fighting knife/bayonet conversion.
£195.00
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