Original German WWI Seitengewehr 1914 Bayonet by SAMSON WERK with Scabbard Original Items

Original Item: Only One Available. This model of bayonet is definitely one of the harder ones to find. We have had several of the “Sawback” variety previously, but never this type, which has the standard smooth back. It is in good shape, and comes complete with a very nice black painted steel 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, while the rest were made with the standard smooth back. 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 a blade that is still bright steel, with only a few areas of staining and other types of oxidation damage. The blade has been sharpened several times, most likely post war, as most of these ended up being used post war outside of military service. It is rare that we see an example with a blade this nice.

The grip scales are in good shape, with the expected dents from service, and have a great red brown color. The hilt does have some light oxidation, especially on the pommel, but the bayonet catch is still fully functional. 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, and much of the original black enamel paint intact. It fits the bayonet well.

A RARE bayonet very hard to find, but will fill a hole in most German Bayonet Collections. Cleaned and ready to display!

Specifications:
Blade Length: 12 1/4″
Blade Style: Single Edge Bayonet
Overall length: 17 1/4“
Crossguard: 1 1/4”
Scabbard Length: 13″