Bayonets are an incredibly common weapon, which have been used in combat since the implementation of firearms and are still issued to troops today. Their roots go as far back as combat itself. The concept is simple, poke your enemy from a safe distance. While the idea of having a reliable tool, like a multi-purpose knife, on your side while in a warzone might be self-explanatory; there is another, lesser known, use for them as well... looking "sharp" (pun may be intended here)

The use of dress bayonets is a fairly old practice, dating back hundreds of years. Though, their use first became a standard practice throughout the Third Reich, along with the rest of the historically fashionable nazi uniforms. The purpose of dress bayonets was not so much for combat as it was used to accessorize one's uniform. It was only worn for special occasions such as parades or a fancy night on the town (called "walking out" or "dressing out"). These dress bayonets were usually fairly dull, as they were only meant to be decorative and ornate. Most of them were not even capable of being affixed to a rifle, especially fireman's bayonets. The German Fire Police forces were issued a special type of dress bayonet, which is indicated by the "S" shaped cross guard which protrudes on both sides. Firemans bayonets are the only ones with this design. All others have a cross guard which only sticks out on one side. There were 100 plus manufacturers of German bayonets during this period, all of which proudly stamped their name and trademark on these weapons of war. However, some fireman's bayonets are completely devoid of markings and insignias, which sometimes leads people to falsely believe they are replicas. The actual reason for this still seems to be up for debate. Some sources speculate that the makers wanted their name to be attributed towards the war effort, and not towards making decorative dress bayonets.

Made in Germany! 

This very rare fireman's bayonet was made by Carl Lutters, and the tang is stamped with his "Prone Lion" trademark. Aside from missing its original handles, it is in very good condition. There is some light surface rust on the cross guard and pommel, but the nickel-plated blade is in excellent shape. It is pointy, but not sharp. The blade edge still maintains its factory level of dullness. The scabbard is physically sturdy and it great shape, free of dents or cracks. Throat screw is still in place. It is painted the standard glossy black, with a good amount of flaking. The exposed areas where the paint has flaked now has light surface rust as well. I would not strip and repaint it, but it could easily be done if you so choose. The leather frog has standard wear that is to be expected, but it marries to the scabbard quite well and all of the stitching is solid and intact. Overall, I'd rate the bayonet itself as a 7/10, not considering its rarity. I would give the frog/scabbard a 7 as well.

The blade length is approximately 9.75 inches, measuring 14.5 inches overall. When in the scabbard, the entire ensemble measures just under 16 inches.

*The buyer is solely responsible for abiding by local and state laws. DO NOT purchase this knife if it is restricted, banned or otherwise controlled in the location it is being shipped or stored. Refer to description for blade length, style, opening mechanism etc.

**Note: I am new to knife collecting and selling. All descriptions are to the best of my knowledge and in an attempt to be as honest and forthright as possible in regards to knife condition. I have conducted hours upon hours of research on each individual knife that comes into my possession in an attempt to set a fair price. PLEASE feel free to contact me for more information on this or any other item in my store.

Semper Fi 

For Sale By: Dr. Shank-N-Stein

View all items for sale by Dr. Shank-N-Stein