Rare pre-World War One Hooked Quillon bayonet made by Sanderson of Sheffield in November 1910 and issued to a career soldier of the 2nd Battalion, The Loyal North Lancashire Regiment. Its issue number was 402.
The 2nd Battalion, The Loyal North Lancashire Regiment were part of the invasion force deployed to attack Tanga in German East Africa (Modern day Tanzania). The 2nd Battalion fought in East Africa until January 1917 when they transferred to Egypt for service in North Africa. In May 1918, the 2nd Battalion moved to France for service on the Western Front.
The 432mm, single edged blade has a long narrow fuller and rounded spine. The edge was armoury sharpened and is nick free. The blade is bright and clean and is in excellent condition.
The ricasso retains its original blueing and is marked with the crowned cypher of Edward VII over the pattern date 1907 and the date of manufacture 11 ’10 below which is stamped “Sanderson.” The obverse ricasso bears the War Department broad arrow, bend test stamp and three inspection and acceptance stamps.
The hooked quilloned crosspiece retains its original blueing, as does the steel pommel. There is some mild wear. The pommel is stamped with the regimental markings “2. N. L.” and the issue number “402.” The wooden grip scales are in very good condition and are held firmly in place by the two original screws. The push button locking mechanism is in good condition and works well. Marks and wear to the mortice slot indicate that this bayonet was mounted to the rifle on numerous occasions.
The bayonet is complete with its No1 Mkll leather scabbard with a teardrop stud. The scabbard is in very good condition with its original blued finish intact. The leather and stitching are strong. The leather is stamped with the War Department arrow, an Enfield inspection mark and the date 1915. The steel locket and chape are also stamped with a War Department arrow above EFD and 4X.
A leather loop was securely stitched to the seam of the scabbard to allow for the use of a leg tie. A leather thong would have been passed through the loop and tied around the soldier’s thigh to hold the bayonet flush against his leg to stop it from catching on the thick undergrowth of East Africa and to stop it from bouncing around when he moved.
This is an excellent example of the iconic and rare British hooked quillon P1907 bayonet, unit marked to a British Line Infantry regiment that fought in East Africa during World War One.
