Original Canadian WWI Mk.II Sharpened Ross Rifle Bayonet and Scabbard – dated 1911 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 By 1916, the rifle had been withdrawn from front line service, but continued to be used by many snipers of the Canadian Expeditionary Force until the end of the war due to its exceptional accuracy.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 the later Mk. II design, with with a flat muzzle and no pin through the pommel, and is in very good condition. The bayonet itself is dated 11 on the pommel, for 1911 manufacture, and 1 / 16 for issue in January of 1916. 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

As with many Ross bayonets, this example has had the blade profile drastically altered during WW I to provide a sharper point.  The original factory grind marks can be seen in areas of the hollow ground blade however. The blade is still mostly bright, with overall staining speckles, and a bit of oxidation near the tip. The lock mechanism functions correctly.

The scabbard for this bayonet is also in very good condition. The scabbards leather body is marked MK II on the back, along with a Canadian “Broad Arrow in C” marking. The scabbard is complete with almost all stitching intact, and the expected light wear to the leather from being over 100 years old.

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!