Rare German WW1 first pattern S98/05a.A. m.S. Saw-back “Butcher’s Blade” Bayonet. The saw-back version was known as the S98/05 m.S. (mit Säge - with saw). Only 6% of S98/05 bayonets were made with the saw-back. This S98/05 m.S was made in 1915.
From 1915 onwards, S98/05 bayonets were retro-fitted with a steel flash guard on the back of the hilt to protect the wooden grips. Bayonets were further modified by grinding off most of the vestigial muzzle ring. This bayonet was produced prior to these modifications.
In 1917, Germany ceased production of the S98/05 saw-back variant and many saw toothed bayonets had the teeth ground off after allied propaganda led to the mistreatment of German soldiers who were captured with one. This bayonet escaped both the 1915 and 1917 recalls, increasing its rarity today.
The 367mm blade is in excellent condition. The 29 pairs of saw teeth remain very sharp. The ricasso is stamped with the makers’ details, Simson & Co. Suhl. The spine carries the Royal Cypher of Kaiser Wilhelm II, King of Prussia above the date stamp ’15 (1915) and two crowned acceptance stamps.
The hilt retains its original “high ears” and is without a flash guard.
The steel of the hilt is bright and rust free with a pale speckled patina. The steel bears numerous inspection stamps. The nuts and bolts that hold the wooden scales in place are stamped, the front of the mortice slot is stamped and the pommel bears three stamps. The press-stud mechanism is in good working order.
The wooden scales are held firmly in place and are in good condition with use related wear and marks.
The bayonet is complete with its Mk II steel scabbard. The scabbard is in good condition. The mouth of the scabbard bears two inspection stamps and the bayonet sheathes and draws smoothly and is held firmly within the scabbard.
This is a great example of a very rare German WW1 saw-back bayonet.
