Belgium FN Model 1949 Knife Bayonet, with Original Scabbard, matching Serial Numbers

*Belgium FN Model 1949 Knife Bayonet, with Original Scabbard, matching Serial Numbers*

Marked on Pommel "S.A.30", Crown J/F proofmark "74817"
Marked on Scabbard: "74817"

Approximate Measurements: blade 23cm, overall 36cm

This bayonet was designed for use with the .30-06 caliber Fabrique Nationale (FN) Model 1949 self-loading rifle. Belgium's military took delivery of 87,545 rifles beginning in 1951, making up about half of the total Model 1949 production.

The design of the Model 1949 bayonet was driven by a request from Egypt, the second country to purchase the rifle, which preferred a shorter, thinner blade compared to the M1924/49 long bayonet made for Venezuela. It features a Belgian hollow-ground, double-edged blade, similar to the earlier Belgian M1935 bayonet.

The serial number and Crown-JF markings indicate this bayonet was made for use by the Belgian Army rather than for export. The "S.A 30" marking refers to the Semi-Automatic .30 caliber rifle it accompanied.

This bayonet was also used by Argentina, Colombia, Congo (Belgian), Egypt, and Luxembourg, with over 140,000 units produced, making it the most widely distributed bayonet for the Model 1949 rifle.

*Condition*
This bayonet is in excellent condition with very clean blade. There are some minor signs of wear and tear to the grip and a minor chip to the pommel. The scabbard fits securely and is in good condition bar some minor scratches. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.

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