The 1853 pattern bayonet comprises a steel blade and elbow forge welded to an iron socket. This was a departure from the usual method and materials of fabrication for socket bayonets which until 1853 had used an iron socket and elbow with a steel blade. In tests the steel elbow was shown to be stronger.
This example was made by the firm of G. W. & E. Roe of Birmingham, England. In late 1853, Roe received a Board of Ordnance contract to produce 2,220 pattern 1853 bayonets. Production of the 1853 pattern bayonet was moved from private contractors to the Government owned Enfield Small Arms Factory in 1854 until 1856 when the pattern was replaced.
The 432mm triangular blade has three, deep fullers running almost the full length of the blade. The forte of the face of the blade bears the maker’s logo, ROE and a Birmingham factory inspection stamp. A second, partly struck crowned inspection stamp and the initials H. B. are also present. The blade is in excellent condition.
The blackened socket is in excellent condition and has a length of 77mm. The muzzle ring diameter, formerly 20mm has been bushed down to 18.5mm, for use with the Martini-Henry rifle. The bushed 1853 pattern was entered into the List of Changes in December 1872 and the “new” bayonet is sometimes referred to as the P1853/72. The locking ring is complete and in good working order.
The bayonet is complete with a black leather scabbard with brass locket and chape. The scabbard indicates that the bayonet saw service in the Indian Subcontinent, probably Nepal as they used a version of the Martini-Henry rifle, known as the Gahendra. The scabbard is in great condition and the stitching is intact and tight. The bayonet sheathes and draws smoothly and is held firmly within the scabbard.
This is an excellent example of a British made 1853 pattern bayonet, later bushed for use with the Martini-Henry rifle or its Nepalese equivalent. A bayonet with an interesting history.
