British Pattern 1888 Mk II Lee Metford Rifle Bayonet made by the Wilkinson Sword Company in March 1900 and is marked to the Notts & Derby Regiment, “The Sherwood Foresters.”
During the Second Boer War in South Africa, the Sherwood Foresters were stationed in the Orange Free State where they fought under General Sir William Gatacre. From April 1900 they were part of the 21st Infantry brigade under General Bruce Hamilton. The battalion stayed in South Africa until the end of the Boer War. In September 1902 they embarked for a new posting in Hong Kong in the wake of the Boxer Rebellion.
This desirable bayonet is in excellent condition for its 121 years of age and is highly collectable. The 305mm double-edged blade is marked on the ricasso with a flat crown above VR (Victoria Regina) and the production date, 3 ‘00 (March, 1900) over the manufacturer’s details; Wilkinson. London.
The obverse ricasso is marked with the War Department arrow, a Wilkinson factory inspection mark and a bend test stamp. The blade spine also bears two Wilkinson inspection stamps. The blade is in good condition.
The wooden grip is firm and in excellent condition with two brass rivets. The steel crosspiece and pommel are bright and free from rust. The press-stud locking mechanism is in good working order.
The pommel is stamped, “6 N & D.” over the weapon number, 308.
The bayonet is complete with its matching numbered black leather scabbard with steel mounts. The steel locket and chape are stamped with Birmingham inspection marks and the throat bears the matching weapon number 308. The black leather is in good condition and is stamped with the War Department arrow. 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 the iconic British Boer War and Boxer Rebellion bayonet.
