Original c1802-1805* 4” Socket Bayonet for the Brown Bess Muzzle Loading Flintlock Muskets and Scabbard by Manufacturer John Gill. BAYO 629. Bayonet

Brown Bess socket bayonets named after the weapon they were made for (Brown Bess" is a nickname of uncertain origin for the British Army's muzzle-loading smoothbore flintlock Land Pattern Musket and its derivatives. The musket design remained in use for over a hundred years with many incremental changes in its design. These versions include the Long Land Pattern, the Short Land Pattern, the India Pattern, the New Land Pattern Musket, and the Sea Service Musket) were the standard bayonet of the 18th century for the British army and continued in use until C1842 (see item 656 of the bayonet book by Watts & White where a Brown Bess socket bayonet with 4” long socket example is illustrated and page 286 of the same book). The typical triangular blade is 403mm in length and it measures 520mm overall length. The 4” long socket’s internal diameter is 26mm and is stamped with maker ‘John Gill’ (This bayonet was made under contract to the E.I.C by John Gill of Birmingham, England between 1802 and 1805). The face of the blade is marked ‘Crown over 8 within 20’. The bayonets blade is straight, and the metal work of the bayonet has just light staining consistent with age and no rust. The scabbard is leather with brass chape and white painted leather collar, the leather is excellent (stamped with an encircled 6-9?), as is the stitching and metalwork. The price for this very nice pair which deserve further research includes UK delivery. BAYO 629.