Help with identification

[moz19]

Can anyone share some knowledge with me on this bayonet?

There isn't any identifying marks. Can anyone share any information?

[Lars0729]

Hi Moz19 - I'll be happy to share what I know..but it isn't much I'm afraid.

Due to the trench warfare of WWI, from 1915 onwards German high command ordered its officers, NCOs and SNCOs to give up their sabers and replaced them with knife or dagger bayonets and a service pistol. While the grips, hilt, pommel, and scabbards between the knife and dagger bayonets were similar, the blades differed. The knife blade is single edged spear tip, whereas the dagger blade is double edge spear tip.

Based on your two photos, it appears yours is a circa 1915-18 dagger bayonet. These are characterized as having blades of about 150mm with a cutting and counter-cutting edge. The hilt is similar to the KS98 with corn grips fixeed by rivets. They also have a flash plate and oil hole. I can see the oil hole - but I can't tell if yours has the flash plate or not. The scabbards were originally leather covered. Both the knife and dagger bayonets can be fixed to 1898 arms. Without markings, it's hard to be more precise.

Many found on the net these days are described as Parade Dress daggers or collectively called Trench Knives and have bright blades, and scabbards all in various conditions. I can't tell if your blade was originally bright and now corroded, or if it is field issue.

This should get you started now that you know what to look for. I wouldn't trust too many of the descriptions you read on any that are for sale unless they can name their source. Too many only compare theirs to other photos and claim it as fact.

I hope this helps...

[1967redrider]

Great information, to AAPK, Lars!

[wlf]

Great information, to AAPK, Lars!

Worth quoting.

[moz19]

Thank you so much. I appreciate the information.