Original British P-1894 Naval Boarding Pike with Enfield Proof Markings Original Items

Original Item: Only One Available. In 1894 the British Military adopted the Pattern 1894 Cavalry Lance and P-1894 Naval Boarding Pike. These were related weapons, however, their individual use required different sizes. The lance was 9′ 1 overall (109″) with a 2′ 4″ steel head (28″) fitted onto an ash wood shaft. In contrast the Boarding Pike was shorter measuring 5′ 6″ overall (66″) with a 15″ steel heads also fitted on Ash wood shaft. Both weapons were destined for obsolescence within the next 20-30 years.

IMA is proud to offer an original Naval Boarding Pike that came from a British Regimental Officer’s Mess wall display and is in very good to excellent condition. The pike is absolutely original, having the correct steel pike head with dual supporting tangs securing it to the Ash shaft. The head bears stamped proof marks and acceptance dates but, in most cases, these are nearly unreadable due to years of polishing (Mess display, after all). However, the quality of the 19th century production and faint markings together with the patina leaves no doubt that this is the real thing!

This example actually still bears a clear BROAD ARROW / EFD marking for the Royal Small Arms Factory located at Enfield Lock outside of London. Several other proofs are visible, making this a great research project. It measures 65 1/4″, so it has lost just a bit of length from the tip and base over the years.

Boarding Pikes were traditionally carried on Galleons, Men-o-War and subsequent Naval Battle vessels to “Repel Boarders” and in earlier days were issued in longer lengths. However, their use was later expanded to boarding parties so a shorter pike was adopted for easier maneuverability.

Boarding pikes represent a truly romantic part of Naval History dating from a time of sail and early Ironsides. Don’t miss this opportunity to add such a rare and unique piece to your collection.