*British, WW2, No.5 MK.1 Type 2 (Jungle Carbine) Bayonet and Original No.5 Scabbard, Made by Wilkinson Sword Co. Ltd – S294*
Marked on the ricasso: “S294” their dispersal code, “W.S.C” for Wilkinson Sword Co and on the obverse “X” bending proof and a War Arrow.
19.6 cm blade, 29.8cm overall
The No. 5 Mk. I, also known as the Jungle Carbine due to its extensive use in post-war colonial operations like the Malayan Emergency, was the second production knife bayonet designed for the .303 caliber Lee-Enfield No. 5 Mk. I rifle. Additionally, the No. 5 Mk. I was compatible with the 9 mm Sterling L2 submachine gun. Production of the No. 5 bayonet spanned from March 1944 to December 1947.
This particular bayonet was manufactured by Wilkinson Sword Co. Ltd. located at 53 Pall Mall, London. By the end of 1945, a total of 316,122 No. 5 Mk. I bayonets had been produced. During the war, four manufacturers were involved in production: Wilkinson Sword Co.: 188,354, Viners Ltd.: 42,000, Radcliffe: 75,000, Elkington & Co. Ltd.: 10,768.
The bayonet features a clip point design with a single edge and wide fullers on both sides below the rounded spine. Unlike most bayonets, the wooden grip scales fully encase the tang and are securely fastened by two screws (Note: Type I bayonets had only one screw and are exceptionally rare). It also includes a beaked pommel and cross guard. Initially, WSC bayonet blades were white metal and not parkarised and their markings are typically less distinct.
*Condition*
The press stud is in perfect working condition. Blade, pommel and cross guard have some rusting and but no nicks. Scabbard fits securely and has some discolouration. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
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