Original German WWI M1898 n/A GEW 98 Bayonet with Leather Scabbard - Unmarked

Original Item: Only One Available. In 1898 with the new Mauser bolt action infantry rifle the military adopted this long bayonet, the Seitengewehr (Sidearm) M1898. This longer bayonet gave an Infantryman the ability to bring a Cavalryman down from his horse, due to the bayonets long reach. Of course Cavalry was soon becoming a thing of the past and these long bayonets were being surpassed by different and shorter versions. At the start of WWI in 1914 this Gew 98 long bayonet was the norm.

This example is in lovely condition, but bears no markings on the ricasso or the spine, so they may have been worn off long ago. The blade appears in very good condition. There is a bit of light staining, but no major rust issues, though the blade doesn’t appear to have been sharpened.

This bayonet is an example of the second model of this bayonet, the n.A. (neu Art) model introduced in 1902, and the grip is made of two halves from wood. After the turn of the century the Germans simplified and strengthened their bayonet grips. The original "alter Art" (old type) bayonet had a grip made of one single piece of wood, which was wrapped around the tang. For more information please see Watts & White, The Bayonet Book, page 120, Item 257.

The bayonet shows minor staining on the blade, however it is overall quite nice after years of service. The grip scales are in very good condition, with no cracks, and the carved ribs are still very clear and have a lovely color. There are a few scratches and small dents.

The bayonet comes in its original leather & steel scabbard which has held up well. The leather has a small bit of shrinkage but overall is very nice.

A great example of an early 1898 bayonet, ready for further research and display.

Specifications:
Blade Length: 20 3/4"
Overall length: 26”
Crossguard: 2 3/8”
Scabbard Length: 21 1/2”