*British, Royal Navy, Boarding Pike, 1888 Model, dated 1897, with clear marks and royal cypher"
Overall 231cms/91" long, the regulation Royal Navy issued length.
The head bears a struck N indicating Admiralty ownership, together with an Enfield view mark and abbreviated date [18]97. Marked on a langnet "War Arrow over EFD" (EFD likely an inspectors initials, commonly found on 1888 Model Pikes), "N", "75 Over E" "'97". "EFD" marked on the steel shoe langnet. "Crown over an indistinct mark" burnt on to the wood between the langnets.
This 19th-century Regulation Royal Navy Boarding Pike follows the 1888 Model design. This was the very last official pattern of naval boarding pike in the Royal Navy. It features a three-sided triangular spike and shorter langets approx 37cm from tip of spike to the end of the lagnet which distinguishes it as an 1888 Model -the earlier 1800 Model has longer langnets and four-sided spike. This 1888 Model, also incorporates a formalized short single riveted 2.5" steel shoe.
Before the introduction of rapid-firing pistols or rifles, the Boarding Pike played a crucial role in effectively warding off boarders attempting to climb the side of a wooden hull or swing into raised defensive protective netting. The spike or blade of naval boarding pikes was deliberately thinner and sleeker than traditional spears or lances. It lacked any protrusions, ensuring a seamless and smooth integration with the wooden shaft or haft. This design was essential to prevent the blade or spike from getting entangled in the protective netting, associated rigging, or any downed rope or canvas sail, allowing it to navigate through without obstruction.
*Condition*
This rare pike is in excellent condition. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
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