India, WW2, No. I Mk. II* Sword Bayonet & Scabbard, Made by R. F. I. (Rifle Factory Ishapore), Dated April 1943, Scabbard made by W. J. Hill Birmingham

*India, WW2, No. I Mk. II* Sword Bayonet & Scabbard, Made by R. F. I. (Rifle Factory Ishapore), Dated April 1943, Scabbard made by W. J. Hill Birmingham*

Approximate Measurements: 30cm blade, 42.3cm overall.

Marked on ricasso: Crown over G.R.I. (George Rex Imperator) over MK II* over 2 ’43, over R.F.I
Marked on obverse: Various Ishapore inspection marks (indistinct): IS, IS/135
Scabbard Marked: W.J.H over B

This Indian-made sword bayonet was designed for use with the .303 caliber Short Magazine Lee-Enfield No. I Mk. III (SMLE) rifle. It was produced in 1943 at the Rifle Factory Ishapore. The bayonet is a refinement of the Indian Pattern 1907 bayonet, itself a locally produced version of the British Pattern 1907. The blade is single-edged with a rounded spine and an upper false edge, featuring a nearly 12-inch unfullered blade that ends in an asymmetrical spear point, retaining its original blackened finish. The only difference between the Mk II and Mk II* is the upper false edge on the MkII*. The addition of a false edge was in order to improve the points’ penetration.

The scabbard, of British origin, bears markings from W.J. Hill Ltd., a manufacturer based in Birmingham.

*Condition*
Good used condition. Some wear and tear to the grip. The blade is in good original condition with some loss of the blackened finish. The press button works well. The scabbard fits snugly. The scabbard shows signs of wear and tear. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.

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