Original Item: Only One Available. This is a really hard to find bayonet, and unlike the previous example we had, this one is in very good service used condition, complete with a very nice scabbard.
This model bayonet was introduced in 1914, having been diverted from a South American Contract that was subsequently never filled. They were intended to take the place of the well known Butcher Bayonet, however were not popular with the Front Line troops. About 6% were made with Saw Backs intended for Sappers, Engineers and Machine Gunners. Not widely distributed before withdrawal so consequently these are very hard to locate. The blade is just over 12 inches in length and these were issued with all steel scabbards.
Our example is in very good condition, with the usual staining from age on the blade and pommel, but no major pitting or other types of oxidation. The blade has been sharpened, but not many times, and the saw back is still sharp. The grip scales are in good shape, with the expected dents from service, and have a great red brown color. There are also proof marks on the spine of the blade, and on the pommel.
The blade ricasso is maker marked:
SAMSON WERK
This is a known Berlin-based maker that has been seen on other examples of this model bayonet. Not much else is known about the maker, which may have been set up specifically for the Contract.
The included steel scabbard is in very good shape, with no major dents, though the end ball has broken off. The black enamel finish has flaked off in a lot of places, but it still presents very well.
A RARE bayonet very hard to find, but will fill a hole in most German Bayonet Collections. Cleaned and ready to display!