Very Scarce* L1A1 Bayonet and Scabbard Converted to L1A3 Specification. 20114. Bayonet

This is a scarce conversion of an ‘L1A1’ bayonet which has retained the ‘L1A1’ grips, but has the ‘L1A3’ designation stamped to the top of the pommel. Most of the ‘L1A1’ bayonets were converted in 1958, which was a year after the original issue; this was due to the fact that the long press stud caused the bayonet to be easily removed from the rifle by rioters and confrontations with civilians. They mostly had new grips with the ‘L1A3’ designation fitted, but a few retained their original ‘L1A1’ grips and had the new designation ‘L1A3 0257’ stamped into the top of the pommel. The blade carries a ‘B58’ stamped to the ricasso. This example appears to have been chromed for parade use and is contained in its ‘No5 Mk1’ scabbard and white parade frog, which bears its previous assignees which gives a glimpse into its history. This is a scarce bayonet and a must for the serious British bayonet collector. See ‘Skennerton’ page 260 for further reference. The price includes UK delivery. 20114.