Second pattern, late ww1 S98/05 butchers’ blade bayonet.
The 368mm single-edged blade has a broad single fuller on both sides, below a flat spine with false upper edge. The blade flares before tapering to a spear point. The edge has been armoury sharpened with no indication of additional sharpening. The blade is in good condition with a pale speckled patina. It is bright and free from rust.
The ricasso is stamped with the Carl Eickhorn maker mark. The blade spine is stamped with the crowned W and manufacture date of 1917 above an inspection stamp. The belly of the ricasso bears the numeral 6.
The wooden grip scales are in good condition, with age related marks and patina. The steel crosspiece and pommel are bright and rust free. The pale patina nicely matches that of the blade. The front of the crosspiece, mortice slot and the pommel bear inspection stamps (fracture). The press stud mechanism works perfectly.
The bayonet is complete with its black painted steel scabbard. The scabbard is in good condition with a few very minor, shallow dings. The throat and ball finial bear inspection fracture. The bayonet sheathes and draws smoothly and is held firmly within the scabbard.
A better than average example of the iconic German Great War bayonet.
