*British, WW1, 1907 Pattern Lee-Enfield Sword Bayonet and Leather Scabbard, Dated 1917, Made by Wilkinson Swords*
Approximate Measurements: 43.2cm blade, 55.5cm overall
This 1907 Bayonet is marked on the ricasso with a Broad Arrow Government Acceptance Mark, and one or more Royal Small Arms Factory appointed inspector’s marks – Crown over 36 over E – and other indistinct marks, X bend mark. On the obverse is a faded crown cypher over the letters GR (GR – Georgius Rex was used in place of ER from 1910, the Latinised version of his name Edward Rex), indistinct dates, and the makers name Wilkinson.
The Pattern 1907 bayonet, officially called the Sword bayonet, pattern 1907 (Mark I), was a British bayonet designed to be used with the Short Magazine Lee Enfield (SMLE) rifle. The Pattern 1907 bayonet was used by the British and Commonwealth forces throughout both the First and Second World Wars. The Pattern 1907 bayonet consisted of a one-piece steel blade and tang, with a crossguard and pommel made from wrought iron or mild steel, and a wooden grip secured to the tang by two screws. Originally the bayonet featured a hooked lower quillon intended for trapping an enemy’s bayonet and possibly disarming opponents when grappling. This was later deemed impractical and replaced with a simpler design from 1913.
The leather scabbard is marked with a broad arrow over EFD for Enfield Royal Arms Factory. On reverse: J.W.S over 17. J.W.S – may indicate the manufacturer J. Wilson Ltd and 17 is the date 1917. This scabbard has a round frog stud, which was approved as an option in 1915.
*Condition*
The blade is in good condition commensurate with its age, with much blueing remaining but some rusting and nicks to the blade. The press stud works well. There is some pitting to the tang. The wooden grips are very good. The blade fits snugly in the scabbard which is is in good condition with signs of wear and tear particularly around the chape. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
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