{"product_id":"original-belgian-terssen-model-1868-pioneer-sawback-bayonet-for-comblain-rifle-dated-1870","title":"Original Belgian Terssen Model 1868 Pioneer Sawback Bayonet for Comblain Rifle dated 1870","description":"\u003cp\u003eOriginal Item: One Only. This is a fine example of the rare early Model 1868 Pioneer Saw back Bayonet, originally designed for the Belgian Terssen Rifle. However the Terssen was relatively quickly replaced by the M1870 Comblain rifle, which was designed with the same mounting parameters, so most of these saw service with the Comblain, especially when dated well after the Terssen was obsoleted.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis bayonet used as the prototype for the German 1871 Pioneer Saw back, with a very heavy blade for chopping wood. Up until WWI, this style of bayonet was common for \"Pioneer\" troops, light engineering soldiers that prepared for later troops. Contrary to rumors, the back of the bayonet really was for sawing wood, not a device to inflict grievous wounds on enemies. However, rumors proved stronger than truth, and by WW1 the saw back bayonet was on the way out. For more information, please see Watts \u0026amp; White, \u003cem\u003eThe Bayonet Book\u003c\/em\u003e, Page 34 Item No. 77.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOur example is dated \u003cstrong\u003e1870\u003c\/strong\u003e on the ricasso, along with serial number \u003cstrong\u003eV 797\u003c\/strong\u003e on the crossguard. There are also Belgian maker markings on both sides of the blade, though they are somewhat worn due to cleaning. The bayonet has a great blade, with just some areas of oxidation and staining, retaining much of the original bright finish. The edge has never been sharpened, though there is just a bit of the tip missing. The sawback is still in very good shape, and the catch still works great. The brass hilt has a lovely patina, and the crossguard has nicely matured. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA beautifully matured specimen that would make a great addition to any bayonet collection.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eBlade length: 19”\u003cbr\u003eBlade Style: Single Edged with Fuller \u0026amp; Sawback\u003cbr\u003eOverall length: 23 1\/2”\u003cbr\u003eCrossguard: 4”\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Original Items","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":39605865906245,"sku":"ONSV21NOS90","price":495.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1524\/1342\/products\/ONSV21NOS90__01.jpg?v=1636144174","url":"https:\/\/www.ima-usa.com\/products\/original-belgian-terssen-model-1868-pioneer-sawback-bayonet-for-comblain-rifle-dated-1870","provider":"International Military Antiques","version":"1.0","type":"link"}