Description

British Experimental Brunswick sword bayonet manufactured at RSAF Enfield in possibly 1838 and marked as such on the ricasso but is difficult to read (see photographs). Typical brass hilt and mortise slot for the Brunswick smooth-bore musket but a full knuckle guard is utilized. The early type of locking bolt button, mid-way along the hand grip confirms the early pattern pre1848. Blade is 561mm and overall is 680mm. This differs to the example in the Tower of London with the shorter blade length. Howard L. Blackmore in his book British Military Firearms 1650-1850 illustrates the various Brunswick firearms and their bayonets. (Pages 196 – 204). Markings to the ricasso are “Crown over F over 6” also with the initials of “WS” or “SM”. Markings to to the pommel are well worn but are partially readable as a large 5 over a large 9. Markings to the pommel end are a small 17 and either a small 6 or 9. No scabbard. This bayonet is ex Watts & White Collection (Reference WW 716 and B&CB B113 – Pages 82 & 83)