British, Pattern 1853/72 Martini Henry Socket Bayonet and Scabbard. - BAYO 429 Bayonet

This triangular tapered socket bayonet was the first universal issue British Army bayonet to have a locking ring, modelled on a French design. It was introduced with the new Pattern 1853 Enfield Rifle Musket. This British-made accoutrement is an original angular socket bayonet made for the Model 1853 Enfield musket. The Enfield bayonet has the distinction of being the first universal issue bayonet to the British Army that employed a locking device. The blade was made of the best cast steel and had an iron socket welded to it. The bayonet with its French-style locking ring has a triangular tapered blade with fullers on each face and is carried in a brass-mounted leather scabbard. This is a Pattern 1853 Enfield socket bayonet converted by bushing the socket to 18mm with the designation Pattern 1853/72 socket bayonet bushed for the Martini Henry rifle. This example is 20½” long overall with a 17 ¼ ” long blade and a 3” long socket. The blade has various stampings on the shoulder near the socket including an feint Enfield inspection stamp with a crown. The socket retains much of its original blued finish. The black leather scabbard has a triangular body mounted with its original brass throat *with play but intact*, clasp hook with number 754 and tip *play but intact*. The leather body is in excellent strong condition with no flaking or crazing and the stitching is intact. A good pattern 1853/72 bayonet complete with its original leather scabbard. See page 143 B184 of Skennerton for refence. The price includes UK delivery. (British sockets box). BAYO 429.