Rare pre-World War One 1907 pattern hooked quillon bayonet made by Enfield for supply to Australia. The bayonet has Pre-WW1 Australian Defence Department and Australian State markings. Australia did not begin production of the P1907 bayonet until 1912.
The 432mm, single edged blade has a long narrow fuller and rounded spine. The edge was service sharpened. The blade is bright and clean and is in very good condition, with some slight scratches and areas of very shallow pitting.
The ricasso retains its original blueing and is marked with the Edwardian crown over the pattern date 1907 and the date of manufacture ’06 ’11 (June 1911), below which is the Enfield maker’s mark. The obverse ricasso bears the War Department broad arrow, bend test stamp, an Enfield inspection stamp and two state of Victoria inspection stamps.
The hooked quillon crosspiece retains its blueing, as does the steel pommel. There is some mild wear and shallow pitting below the blueing. The cross-piece is stamped with the state of Victoria ownership mark, V18 and the issue number 927.
The pommel is stamped with the Australian Defence Department mark, a capital “D” containing an arrow. The wooden grip scales are in good used condition with wear and age related discolouration. One scale has suffered from woodworm in the past but is stable and worm free. The grip scales are held firmly in place by the two original screws. The push button locking mechanism is in good condition and works well.
The bayonet is complete with its No1 Mkll leather scabbard with a teardrop stud. The scabbard is in good condition, the leather and stitching are sound but there is some stable, shallow pitting to the blued locket and chape. The locket is dented on one side but this does not impede the easy sheathing and smooth withdrawal of the bayonet.
This is a good, rare example of the iconic British hooked quillon bayonet that saw service with the Australian military during The Great War.
