Australian M1907 Parade Bayonet and Scabbard with Regimental Numbers. 22256. Bayonet

This is a regimentally marked Australian 1907 Pattern bayonet with 'SLAZ' marked grips. In around 1927 bayonet production ceased and was re commenced late in 1940. The bayonet shop was transferred from Lithgow to Orange in July 1942. The wood room, which made up rifle furniture as well as bayonet grips, was removed from Lithgow to the Slazenger Sports Goods factory in Sydney in 1941, and the mark "Slaz" on the grips indicates manufacture there. After Japans entry into the war in the Pacific, Australian bayonet development moved rapidly into newer, shorter and specialised patterns and so the long 1907 bayonets manufactured in WWII were short lived and consequently rare. The bayonet has a polished 17" blade with fullers. The ricasso is stamped with inspection marks and ‘OA’ (Orange Arsenal) and on the other side with "1907 2 43" (February 1943). The blade is in excellent condition. The bayonet has a straight waisted crossguard. The slab wood grips are both stamped "Slaz" and are secured with two screw bolts. The pommel is regimentally marked ‘D 17749’ to one side and has the push button release, which operates smoothly and clearance hole. The No 1 late scabbard has a large frog stud along with three rivets showing on the locket. It is leather and stitching are in good condition and is stamped "Mangrovite 43 (1943). (See page 5 No 6 of Watts & White for reference) The price includes UK delivery. 22256.