c1918 German Former Sawback Butchers Bayonet & Scabbard

*c1918 German Former Sawback Butchers Bayonet & Scabbard*

With its 35cm blade this is the infamous ‘Sawback Butcher’ bayonet, after it has had its teeth removed, probably in the field!

The sawback bayonet was designed for use with the 7.92 mm Gewehr 98 bolt action Mauser Rifle, being one of the main service rifles of the German Army pre and post WW1. A small percentage of German bayonets were made with a sawback. They were only to noncommissioned officers or pioneer and machine gun troops to clear vegetation and other obstructions (much as U.S. machine gun crews used the various bolo knives and machetes). Sawback blades were also carried by non-commissioned officers (NCOs) as a symbol of rank. The sawback was phased out during the war due to negative Allied propaganda. On 2 July 1917 the Bavarian War Ministry suggested they be taken out of service while noting that there was no evidence that any soldiers captured with them had ever been mistreated. On 17 August 1917, Ludendorff reported that there was widespread fear among soldiers about being captured with them, and on 15 September 1917, the Prussian War ministry ordered that any in front line use should be replaced with non sawbacks. The Bavarians following on 17 October 1917. However, sawbacks continued in use among training, garrison, and occupation units and prison guards were issued with them. Finally, on 6 January 1918, the order was given to start removing sawbacks.

A wood handle and swept back quillon. Black leather scabbard with brass top mount is missing its matching brass tip. The brass is marked K. 37.A. 1.20.

*Condition*
The blade shows significant service related wear and tear and is heavily pitted obscuring any marks. The sawback teeth have been removed. The end of the blade is blunted. The scabbard fits securely but is broken at the tip and missing its brass end. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.

JAQHO_6632131705