Bulgarian M1888 Bayonet by Avramov & Kovachev and V&N Scabbard and Frog for use with the Mannlicher M1888/90 Rifle

*Bulgarian M1888 Bayonet by Avramov & Kovachev and V&N Scabbard and Frog for use with the Mannlicher M1888/90 Rifle*

This is a Bulgarian M1888 Bayonet for use with the Mannlicher M1888/90 Rifle, which were used extensively in Bulgarian service, especially during the Balkan wars of 1912-1913. During WW1 the troops were largely armed with M95s but the earlier models remained in use on the front line as well.

The bayonet is marked ‘A&K Габрово’ [Gabrovo in cyrillic] on the ricasso which stands for Avramov & Kovachev, Gabrovo – a Bulgarian M1888 bayonet manufacturer. There is a Bulgarian lion on the obverse crosspiece. Production stopped in 1915. 24cm blade. Bright finished pommel and crossguard with muzzle ring. Excellent wooden grips secured to the blade by two steel rivets.

The metal scabbard is marked V&N which is Vogel & Noot of Wartberg, Austria – a contract maker for scabbards only.

The German Leather frog is dated 1916 Kiel.

*Condition*
The this rare find is in very good condition with service and age related wear and tear, some pitting to the blade. The press stud works well and the scabbard fits snugly. There is a large dent in the scabbard. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.

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