Original German WWI M1898/05 a/A Butcher Bayonet with Steel Scabbard by Mauser – Dated 1915 Original Items

Original Item: Only One Available. This is a good service used example of the M-1898/05 Bayonet (Seitengewehr), which was the most common German Bayonet of the First World War. It was intended for use on the standard issue service rifle of Imperial Germany: the Mauser-designed Gewehr 98 (GEW 98). It features a heavy 14.5-inch steel blade with distinct bulge toward the point, giving extra weight and power to the business end, known as a “butcher blade”. This version is known as the a/A (alter Art = older model), which lacks a flashguard and was made with a vestigial (partial) muzzle ring, often referred to as having “high ears.” These were often ground away, as is the case with this example.

This example has a very nice set of original wood grips, though they are quite work. They look to be smooth, instead of the usual grooved grip scales, so they may be period replacements. The hilt also has some surface rusting due to service and age. Bayonet lock is fully functional. The blade ricasso is maker marked:

WAFFENFABRIK
MAUSER A.G.
OBERNDORF a.N.

The blade is also dated on the blade’s spine 15 under a proof mark of a Crown over W, for Kaiser Wilhelm II, and the year the bayonet was accepted. The blade is in good condition, though it does have some overall staining as well as some peppering. It also appears to have been sharpened several times.

The steel scabbard does show some large dents on all sides, and the original finish is now faded to an oxidized patina. It still fits the bayonet as it should, and the frog button is still attached firmly.

A very nice early pattern example of what is becoming a difficult bayonet to find in any condition. Never messed with, just the way we like to find them, ready to display!

Dimensions:
Blade length: 14 1/2”
Blade Style: Single Edged “Butcher” with Fuller
Overall length: 19 3/4”
Crossguard: 2 3/4”
Scabbard length: 15 1/4″