*British, WW1 - Dated Jan 1916, Pattern 1907 Sword Bayonet, by Wilkinson, with Scabbard*
An original First World War Pattern 1907 sword bayonet by Wilkinson, dated January 1916, retaining its service scabbard and showing clear wartime manufacture and inspection markings. This is a classic mid-war example of the standard British infantry bayonet issued for use with the Short Magazine Lee-Enfield (SMLE) rifle, produced at the height of wartime demand.
The blade is full-length at approx. 43 cm, with a single fuller and typical spear point profile. The ricasso is marked “WILKINSON” beneath a crowned inspection stamp and “1907” pattern designation, with the date “1 ’16” confirming January 1916 manufacture. Opposing side inspection marks include multiple Enfield-style examiner’s stamps and bend test marks, consistent with British ordnance acceptance during the period.
The hilt retains its original wooden grip scales secured by screw bolts, with good honest service wear. The pommel and crossguard show typical finish loss and age patina, and the oil hole is present. The release button appears intact. The blade has been sharpened during service life, which is not uncommon for wartime-used examples, though this has softened the original edge profile in places and slightly altered the factory finish along the cutting edge.
The accompanying scabbard is the standard leather-bodied type with steel chape and throat mount. The leather shows age, surface wear, consistent with long-term storage, while the metal mounts retain a good aged patina. Stitching and structure appear intact, presenting as a complete and correct pairing for display.
Approx. Measurements – Blade length: 43 cm. Overall length: 55 cm.
History Note:
The Pattern 1907 bayonet was the principal British service bayonet of the First World War, introduced for use with the SMLE rifle and remaining in service well into the Second World War. Wilkinson was one of the key private contractors producing these bayonets alongside Enfield and other makers, with 1916 representing peak wartime output. Many examples saw extensive frontline service, often being field-sharpened by soldiers for utility use beyond their intended thrusting role.
*Condition*
Good overall service-worn condition. Blade retains clear markings but shows sharpening and edge wear. Hilt solid with expected wear to wood grips and metal fittings. Scabbard complete with age-related wear to leather and patinated mounts. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
A solid and honest wartime Wilkinson example, complete with scabbard and desirable early 1916 date, representing a well-used but authentic First World War service bayonet.
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