In 1859, a new musket, the 1859 pattern was introduced for Indian service. The accompanying bayonet, also referred to as the “Native Infantry Smoothbore Musket Bayonet,” was almost identical to the British 1853 pattern socket bayonet and much of the initial production took place in England. This example was produced at the Enfield Small Arms factory.
The India pattern 1859 socket bayonet differs from the British pattern 1853 by having a slightly longer blade and a small increase to the muzzle ring diameter.
The 444mm triangular blade has three, deep fullers running almost the full length of the blade. The forte of the face of the blade bears an Enfield factory inspection stamp. The left-hand side of the blade is engraved with one of the languages of the Indian Subcontinent. Maybe Farsi or Urdu?
The blade is in excellent condition.
The blackened muzzle ring is in excellent condition and has a length of 77mm and a muzzle ring diameter of 22mm. The front of the muzzle ring is stamped with the letter, R. The locking ring is complete and in good working order.
The bayonet is complete with its Indian made black leather scabbard with brass locket and chape. 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 India pattern 1859 socket bayonet.
