Description
British Pattern 1879 Artillery Sawback bayonet manufactured at RSAF Enfield in October 1784. This bayonet originally fitted the Martini-Henry Artillery Carbine and was issued to what is believed to be the Colonial Forces of New South Wales through the serial number “A104” stamped on the crossguard. The bayonet is in good condition but has been deactivated by the New South Wales government upon disposal. Both NSW and Queensland deactivated their bayonet by way of removing the muzzle ring and closing the mortise slot in the pommel by a heavy blow. The mortise slot has been reactivated but damage from the blow can still be seen.
The bayonet has several Enfield inspection marks, the ordnance acceptance mark ^/WD. The grips show some wear and the blade has aged patina and very minor shallow pitting in a couple of areas. There is no scabbard. (Reference ASB Pages14 and 15, BCB B197, WW 785) .