Original Canadian WWI Mk.I Unaltered Ross Rifle Bayonet with and Scabbard – dated 1908 Original Items

Original Item: Only One Available. The Ross rifle is a straight-pull bolt action .303 inch-calibre rifle that was produced in Canada from 1903 until 1918. The Ross Mk.II (or “model 1905”) rifle was highly successful in target shooting before World War I, but the close chamber tolerances, lack of primary extraction and overall length made the Mk.III (or “1910”) Ross rifle unsuitable for the conditions of trench warfare, exacerbated by the often poor quality ammunition issued. By 1916, the rifle had been withdrawn from front line service, but continued to be used by many snipers of the Canadian Expeditionary Force until the end of the war due to its exceptional accuracy.

This is an early Mk. I example, with the extended muzzle ring and the pinned pommel, and is in very good condition. A flat spring was inserted inside the muzzle ring to remedy problems with the bayonet separating from the rifle. The bayonet itself is dated 08 on the pommel, for 1908 manufacture, and 2 – 10 for issue in February of 1910. There are additional proof and acceptance marks stamped into the wood and steel of the handle. The other side of the handle is marked with the manufacturer information:

ROSS RIFLE Co.
QUEBEC
PATENTED 1907

Many Ross bayonets had their blade profile drastically altered during WW I to provide a sharper point. However, this example is exactly as it left the Ross Rifle Co., Quebec, Canada factory in 1910, and is in very good shape. The original factory grind marks can be seen in areas of the hollow ground blade, with little sign of post arsenal sharpening. It does have some staining and light peppering on the bright blade. The lock mechanism functions correctly, and the spring in the barrel ring is still present.

The scabbard for this bayonet is also in very good condition. The top of the throat is marked with a proof mark, along with a date of 1.12. The scabbards leather body is dated 1909 on the back, next to maker mark R.R.C. and a Canadian broad Arrow on the bottom rear. The scabbard is complete with all stitching intact, and the expected light wear to the leather from being over 100 years old. There are some number markings stamped into the leather frog, but we do not know the significance.

Unlike most of the Ross Rifle bayonets seen on the market, this example does not have ANY U.S. Surcharges, so it was not one of the 20,000 sent to the U.S. for training purposes in 1917.

An excellent example of a rare bayonet, with little sign of use. Ready to add to your collection!