*USA, WW2, M1 Garand Bayonet and Original Scabbard, Made by Pal Blade Co, Dated 1943*
Approximate measurements: 9 3/4″/24.6cm blade, 36cm overall.
Marked on the ricasso: PAL in an oval, US with a ordnance bomb, 1943
Marked on cross bar: 4543990
Marked on the tang: H.S (or S.H.)
Marked on the scabbard. US within a ordnance bomb.
A spear point knife bayonet with long fullers, designed by John Garand for use with the caliber .30–06 U.S. Rifle M1, also compatible with the caliber .30–06 M1903 and M1903A3 rifles. Production of the M1 bayonets took place from 1943 to 1945 and in 1953, resulting in approximately 2.9 million units during World War II. This particular bayonet, manufactured by Pal Blade Co. (Pal Blade and Tool (PAL), Plattsburg, NY.) – PAL only manufactured these bayonets from 1942 to 1944 making just 210,00. The ricasso bears the stamp “PAL U.S. 1943”. It features fine ribbed grips secured with a single screw bolt and was commonly worn on the Garand rifle belt or the doughboy pack.
Its development traces back to a 1942 request from the US Cavalry Board for a shorter bayonet suitable for men riding in vehicles or on horseback. The M1905 bayonets were shortened to 10 inches and designated M1905E1, while 16-inch M3 scabbards were cut down to M7 length. The shortened blade, designated Bayonet M1, proved highly satisfactory and became standard issue in early 1943.
The M7 scabbard used with the M1 bayonet was virtually identical to the M3 scabbard, differing only in length. All M7 scabbards were manufactured by Victory Plastics Co. in Hudson, MA, and featured a wire belt clip.
*Condition*
The blade is parkerised and in very good condition. Pommel release works correctly. There is some tarnishing/ discolouration to the cross piece, tang and pommel. The grip is in good condition with some service related wear and tear. The press button is in working order. The scabbard is in good condition though some paint is worn and fits snugly. It has minor, service related signs of wear and tear. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
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