Scarce* British, 1903 Pattern SMLE Rifle Bayonet Converted From Pattern 1888 Sword Bayonet, Scabbard & Frog. Sn 23478:106 Bayonet

The Pattern 1903 bayonet was issued to the first SMLE rifles and combined the Pattern 1888 blade and cross piece with a new pommel design. Many 1903 pattern bayonets were converted from pattern 1888 bayonets to cover a shortfall in production. This bayonet is a good example of a converted pattern 1888 bayonet, scabbard and frog. The double edged blade has a length of 30cm. One side of the ricasso is stamped is stamped with a crowfoot a& EFD (Enfield) and the other side is stamped crown over S 28 Edwards crown over VR 11 ’98 (original date of manufacture November 1898) 1903 (pattern 1903 bayonet). The ricasso is regimentally stamped N&I 229. The wooden grip scales are in good condition retained by 2 screw bolts. The bayonet is contained in its original leather scabbard with steel mounts. See Skennerton, item B230, pages 181 & 182. The brown leather mark 2 frog has a rivet and stitching construction with a securing buckle. (See item 127 on page 32 in Bayonet Belt Frogs Part I by Anthony Carter). The press-stud locking mechanism works well. The price includes UK delivery. (British Bayonets Box 1) Sn 23478:106 £475.00