France, M1892 2nd Pattern Mannlicher-Berthier Sword Bayonet & Scabbard, with Matching numbers

*France, M1892 2nd Pattern Mannlicher-Berthier Sword Bayonet & Scabbard, with Matching numbers*

Approximate Measurements:39.6cm blade, 51.3cm overall

Marked on ricasso: J. C both encircled
Marked on Pommel: 792
Marked on crossguard: 2
Marked on quillon: J (or F) 470
Marked on Scabbard Frog Mount: J (or F) 470

The French Model 1892 Sword Bayonet, was first manufactured in 1892, and remained in active service throughout World War I. This M1892 bayonet was designed to complement the 8 mm Mannlicher-Berthier M1890 Cavalry Carbine, as well as the M1892 and M1916 Artillery Carbines.

This second pattern bayonet has semi-circular indentations on both sides of the blade near its base, which engage with internal springs within the scabbard, effectively gripping the blade and securely holding it in place. This example has wooden grips which were introduced c1905. It also has the second type of crosspiece with a wider muzzle ring that extends over the grip which was introduced in 1912. This example still has a hooked lower quillon rather than the cut down version that was made mandatory in 1915. Dating this between 1912-1915. The quillon bears the serial number J (or F) 470, inscribed in cursive script, which corresponds with the marking on the scabbard. The ricasso is stamped J (circle) and C (circle) which may be the inspection marks made by the factory supervisors:
J = Sup. Officer: Lt. Col. Marc Jacquot, at Chatellerault 1914-1924
C = Final Inspector likely to be Col. Chatain (1912-1915)

Throughout the production of these bayonets, three different variations of the crosspiece were introduced. The second pattern, introduced in 1912, featured a wider muzzle that extended beyond the grip. During World War I, the third-pattern crosspiece was introduced, marked by a shortened lower quillon. It was during this period that earlier patterns often had their hooked quillons removed to accommodate these wartime changes.

*Condition*
This rare find is in very good condition. There is some rusting and pitting to the pommel and cross bar. The mortice button works well. The blade is in good clean condition with no nicks. The matching scabbard fits snugly and has pitting and some rusting. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.

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