Description

Australian Experimental Commando bayonet. In the collection are three of these bayonets each with different knuckle guards. Each individual bayonet listed details the photo of all three together showing the different style of guard.

This bayonet shows the MA proofs and dated 3 ’45 with OA stamped at the rear of the pommel. The blade appears to be of an Owen example which is different to those made from broken No1 blades and has a length of 10 inches (255mm). The grips are stamped SLAZ 44. The scabbard is not the typical MANGROVITE made one but Lithgow made as is stamped MA to the leather. with OA stamped to both locket and chape. References can be found at B&CB A31, ASB page 112 and the recently published Australian & New Zealand CUTLERS AND CUTLERY 1788 – 1988 by Keith M Spencer and Joan Renton-Spencer (KMS page 291). It is presumed these originated from the late Major E.J. (Ted) Millet MBE collection. SOLD April 2020