Original Item: Only One Available. In 1898 with the new Mauser bolt action infantry rifle the military adopted this long bayonet, the Seitengewehr (Sidearm) M1898. This longer bayonet gave an Infantryman the ability to bring a Cavalryman down from his horse, due to the bayonets long reach. Of course Cavalry was soon becoming a thing of the past and these long bayonets were being surpassed by different and shorter versions. At the start of WWI in 1914 this Gew 98 long bayonet was the norm.

This is a very nice Nickel Plated "Parade" or "Walking Out" example of the M1898, with the typical long "pipe backed" 20 1/2" blade, also called a "quill back". The bayonet has very fine nickel plated hilt mounts, though there is plating flaking and oxidation. The mortise and lock works, though it is oxidized and sticks, and like most parade bayonets, it does not conform to the n/A or a/A pattern, with two grip scales, but without any flash guard on the spine.

There is no maker marking on the blade, but this is typical for parade bayonets, as many retailers often purchased raw unmarked blades and would plate and fit the bayonets themselves. The grip plates are of wood, being the 2nd Style, and have grooves cut into them to afford a good grip and are retained by a rivet and spanner. Condition is very good, with no cracks or chips, just the usual wear from use and age. The blade is in great shape, with the nickel plate still retained well, with just a few areas of wear and flaking.

The scabbard is of fine leather that has been decorated with the usual pattern of twin lines. The stitching in the rear of the scabbard is still fully intact, though there is some space in the joint, so the stitching has stretched. The upper and lower scabbard mounts are nickel-plated and have scalloped edges. The lower mount is retained by staples on both sides, while the upper mount has but one. The leather on this example is in good condition, though the finish has started flaking off in areas as shown.

The scabbard is held in a black leather frog with aluminum rivets, which is unmarked. The frog is in good condition, though it is torn slightly at the top of the belt loop. Most likely this bayonet was used during WWI and again in WWII, possibly passed down within a family.

A great example of an Imperial German Parade bayonet, used into the WWII years. Ready to add to your collection!

Specifications:
Blade Length: 20 1/2"
Overall length: 26”
Crossguard: 2 3/8”
Scabbard Length: 21 1/2”