Rare pattern 1855 Sappers and Miners “Lancaster” Bayonet in good issued condition.
In 1855, the Sappers and miners (later Engineers) adopted the Lancaster carbine as their primary weapon and the P1855 bayonet was produced to accompany it. The P1855 is a very distinctive bayonet with a pipe backed blade and quill point. Possibly one of the best-looking bayonets produced for the British army.
The 600mm pipe back blade is bright and clean with minimal pale speckles of tarnish. The ricasso bears the War department arrow, the production date ‘79 (1879), a bend test X, remnants of the Elkington makers’ details and an Enfield inspection stamp. The obverse ricasso bears the reissue date of ’03 (1903) and a Birmingham repair stamp. The belly of the ricasso is stamped with the number 77 below an inspection mark.
The iconic brass cross guard and bird-beak pommel are in good condition. The beaked pommel bears the unit markings of the Royal Army Medical Corps and issue number 48. Most P1855 Lancaster carbine bayonets were re-issued to the medical corps as side arms after the Engineers adopted a new pattern rifle and bayonet. The press-stud and external spring catch are in good working order. The chequered leather grip scales are in good condition. The spine of the tang is stamped with the partial makers’ name, “Elkington” and a Birmingham repair stamp.
The bayonet is complete with its original brass mounted leather scabbard. The leather is in good condition with some crazing and marks to the original finish. The middle of the bayonet has had a good and strong repair to splits in the sides. The stitching is intact and tight. The brass furniture is in good condition with some small dings and age-related marks. The locket is missing its frog stud. The locket and chape are stamped with Birmingham inspection marks. The bayonet sheathes and draws smoothly and is held firmly within the scabbard.
This is a good example of a rare and iconic British Lancaster carbine bayonet.
