WWI ‘Ersatz’ Turkish Conversion Bayonet and Scabbard. 19593 Bayonet

This is believed to be a Turkish conversion of a German ‘Ersatz’ bayonet, by the addition of a muzzle ring to the grip (see No. 335 of The Bayonet Book by Watts & White which illustrates a similar bayonet minus the added muzzle ring). Ersatz (substitute) bayonets were made in Germany during the early years of World War I, because there weren’t enough regulation bayonets to equip the rapidly expanding army. Ersatz bayonets were manufactured in local workshops resulting in hundreds of variations. The single edged fullered blade is 24 cm in length (38 ½ cm overall) the blade has been re sharpened and is showing signs of age related wear, as is the spine. The steel grips are held with two pins and are displaying the number ‘23838’. The catch functions as it should. The steel scabbard with frog stud retains much of its original paint and has some age related marks. A nice scarce bayonet and scabbard for the collector/enthusiast. The price includes UK delivery.