Imperial German, WW1, 2nd Pattern M1898/05 n/A (Mauser Gew 98) Sword Bayonet and Scabbard, Made by Carl Eickhorn of Solingen, Dated 1918

*Imperial German, WW1, 2nd Pattern M1898/05 n/A (Mauser Gew 98) Sword Bayonet and Scabbard, Made by Carl Eickhorn of Solingen, Dated 1918*

Approximate Measurements: 36.5cm blade, 49.5cm overall

Marked on the ricasso: Carl Eickhorn, Solingen
Marked on the spine: Crown over W over 18,

This example was made in 1918 by Carl Eickhorn, Solingen. It carries the Royal Cypher of Kaiser (Emperor) Wilhelm II of Prussia, who reigned 1888–1918. Wilhelm II was the “Kaiser Wilhelm” of First World War fame.

Sword bayonet designed for use with the 8 mm Mauser Gewehr 98. This is the second pattern of the M1898/05 sword bayonet, sometimes referred to as the n/A (neuer Art = newer model). Notably, the second pattern omitted the vestigial muzzle ring (or ‘ears’) present in the first pattern, and instead featured a flashguard to prevent burning.

Introduced to address the shortcomings of its predecessor, the M1898, which had a tendency for blade breakage due to its long, slender design, the M1898/05 became the most widely used German bayonet during the First World War. It is often referred to as a “butcher blade” due to their resemblance to knives commonly used by butchers during that era.

*Condition*
Blade is discoloured with a few nicks but unpitted and pommel and crossbar have some rusting as does the scabbard. Both have vestiges of red paint. Press button works well. Scabbard fits securely. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.

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