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Title 1858 model bayonet for Lancaster rifle, RAMC marked
Nationality British
Period 1858-60
Sold

This was the bayonet designed for the oval bore carbine of the Sappers and Miners, who in 1857 were renamed the Royal Engineers, with a strength of some 3,000 men. Some 19,000 were made in all, many going to India to equip the Native Sappers and Miners carbine, with a few going to Australia.

It has its original black leather scabbard, nicely marked with ordnance stamps under the top locket, which is date stamped for 1896 and 1903. The blade is dated 1903 at the forte, alongside several Birmingham Small Arms Factory inspection stamps. The face of the hilt is stamped M/R.A.M.C./4. These weapons continued in service as sidearms for the Medical Corps long after the carbines had been withdrawn, this example even having an iron ring sweated in place inside the muzzle ring to prevent use on a rifle.

The pipeback section of the blade has suffered somewhat from corrosion and subsequent cleaning, but only on one side for 17cm or so. The scabbard seam is intact and there is a little shinkage and distortion to one grip. The press stud has some old corrosion, along with the leaf spring. The blade has scattered patches of old corrosion thoughout, now mostly polished out.

If you want to comment on this item—re quality, age, etc—please email me.


[Edged Weapons : Bayonets : British : 19th Century]

testimonials

The sword [knot] arrived today, very pleased with it. Your service is very quick and you are always a pleasure to buy from.

M H, UK, 20.01.2011

Just wanted to thank you very much for finding the sword - you have made C's day and therefore mine!

A J, UK, 04.05.2006

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