This pattern 1856 British sword bayonet was made for the Model 1853, .577 calibre Enfield rifled short-musket. Originally only issued to British infantry sergeants, these rifles and bayonets were also sold to both the Union and Confederate armies during the American Civil War.
The 578mm yataghan blade has a flat spine and broad single fuller on both sides. The recurved blade is double-edged for the last 120mm. The ricasso bears the Ritter, the knights’ helmet logo of the Kirschbaum factory in Solingen, Germany. The obverse ricasso is stamped with the War Department WD and arrow above a crowned inspection mark.
The blade retains its original factory edge and is in very good condition with some tiny spots of tarnish and a small patch of very shallow pitting above the fuller on one side.
The iconic steel crosspiece with forward pointing cockscomb and button finials is bright and free of rust. The crosspiece is stamped with the number 397.
The press-stud and external spring locking mechanism work perfectly. The leather grip scales are in very good condition and are firmly in place.
The bayonet is complete with its original leather scabbard with steel mounts. The steel locket and chape are bright with cleaned, shallow pitting. The leather is in good condition with some use related wear. The stitching is intact and tight.
This is a very good example of an 1856 pattern bayonet.
