German WWI S98/05 Sawback Bayonet, Horster Mfg. Veteran Estate
This item is listed for historical interest only. It was listed on our site previously but has been sold and is no longer available for purchase.
Sold for: $145.00

Original era manufacture. Recently we purchased a number of items from the family of Sergeant Duane C. Hinkle, US Army, who served in the 735th Ordnance Company during WWII. According to his daughter and son-in-law, Sergeant Hinkle spoke of gathering up firearms and other weaponry, piled in the streets of a recently captured German town. These items were brought home from that pile after WWII..This is a bit of a shame, a scarce bayonet, which, had it been taken better care of would be a really nice example.The blade is bright, original polish, never sharpened, and the tip is sharp. However, it displays extensive staining, and some light pitting in areas, from corrosion. Horster name on the ricasso, crown W 16 on the spine.The guard, flashguard and pommel have a heavy corrosion finish. When it first came into our hands, it was difficult to make out the slot for the push button, which was solidly rusted shut. With some work and a fair amount of penetrating oil, we were able to get it free, and amazingly the spring still works.The scabbard is sound, some stitching separation near the throat fitting, with the bayonet closing to within a one inch gap. The lower portion of the leather body is pinched just above the chape, perhaps with a little effort this can be opened up a bit and the blade will fit the scabbard as it should. Corrosion pitting patina to the metal fittings on the scabbard.