Original Item: Only One Available. This is a very nice example of the long sword bayonet used with the Italian Vetterli service rifle. Commonly referred to by collectors as the M1871 Vetterli bayonet, the bayonet itself was officially designated the Italian Modello 1870. It was designed for the 10.4mm Vetterli infantry rifle adopted by the Kingdom of Italy in the early 1870s and remained associated with the Vetterli family through its later service modifications.

This example remains in its original long configuration, retaining the full length sword-type blade as well as the distinctive deeply curled lower quillon. Large numbers of these older Vetterli bayonets were subsequently altered during the long service life of the rifle, particularly during the First World War, when many were shortened considerably and frequently had the hooked portion of the guard removed. This example escaped wartime alteration and retains the impressive proportions of the original long pattern.

The bayonet has the characteristic straight steel blade with a broad fuller running along each side, together with the steel crossguard, muzzle ring, and prominent hooked quillon. The hilt retains its brown composition grip scales and the early-style long external leaf spring for the bayonet locking catch. The pommel, locking button, mounting slot, spring, and associated hardware are all present. The muzzle ring also displays the characteristic lower cut-out encountered on examples of this Vetterli bayonet pattern.

A period serial or mating number is stamped into the crossguard and appears to read:

B 5161

Condition is good for a bayonet of this age, with considerable original character remaining. The blade has developed a gray steel patina with scattered oxidation, staining, age spotting, and areas of light surface pitting. The fullers remain clearly defined, and the point is intact. The guard, muzzle ring, pommel, and other exposed steel components display a deep brown patina with surface oxidation.

The original brown composition grip scales remain fitted and show considerable period wear. One scale has a small chipped area toward the upper portion, together with smaller age cracks, handling marks, and surface wear elsewhere.

A well-preserved early Italian Vetterli sword bayonet retaining its long form and clear period serial marking, making it an appealing companion to a Vetterli rifle and a desirable addition to any collection.

Blade Length: 20 ½”
Full Length: 25 ¼”
Crossguard: 4”