Item Description
Original Item: Only One Available. This is a great example of the M-1898/05 Bayonet (Seitengewehr), which was the most common German Bayonet of the First World War. It was intended for use on the standard issue service rifle of Imperial Germany: the Mauser-designed Gewehr 98 (GEW 98). It features a heavy 14.5-inch steel blade with distinct bulge toward the point, giving extra weight and power to the business end, known as a "butcher blade". This version is known as n/A (neuer Art = newer model). This second pattern lacks the first pattern's vestigial muzzle ring (or 'ears') and has a flashguard on the back of the grip.
This example has a very desirable "sawback" blade, which was intended for use by pioneers to saw through brush and obstacles. Unfortunately a rumor got out that it was intended to inflict grievous harm on enemies, so a lot of the sawback bayonets had this feature removed, making them hard to find. This example has a blade in good condition. There is a bit of light staining, but no major rust issues. It does appear to have been sharpened a little, and the sawback itself is in excellent condition.
This example has a very nice set of original grooved wood grips that have a lovely color and minor chipping (minor crack towards top), with a very nice hilt with moderate rust and a great patina. Bayonet lock appears seized but is not too rusted and could be made to work again, and the flash guard is undented, which is rare as these were often used as a hammer in the field. The blade ricasso is maker marked (bottom line faint):
J.H. BECKER
SOLINGEN
Becker are known to have been cutlers during the war but little else is recorded about the firm. Bayonets with their trademarks are rare and not one example has been dated. Becker’s sawback bayonets were probably made in 1916 and early 1917 before their manufacture was suspended. They bear very few inspection stamps.
The blade has a faint marking on the spine but no date, as is correct for Becker examples.
The steel scabbard is well-retained with light oxidation spotting across.
An excellent example of what is becoming a difficult bayonet to find in such fine condition, never messed with, just the way we like to find them. Ready to display!
Dimensions:
Blade length: 14 1/2”
Blade Style: Single Edged "Butcher" with Fuller & Sawback
Overall length: 19 3/4”
Crossguard: 2 3/4”
Scabbard length: 15 1/4"
- This product is available for international shipping.
- Eligible for all payments - Visa, Mastercard, Discover, AMEX, Paypal & Sezzle
