WW1 1915 Imperial German M1898/05 1st Pattern “Butcher’s Blade” Bayonet by SIMSON & Co. SUHL

Here on offer is an Imperial German M1898/05 “Butcher’s Blade”, 1st pattern bayonet by Simson & Co., of Suhl, dated to 1915.

This example is in well used condition, with damage to one of the wooden grips and slight but gentle curve to the blade towards the tip. There is no scabbard with this bayonet.

This example was made in 1915 by Simson & Co., of Suhl. Early Simson & Co. examples are now scarce to find.

The 1st pattern example of the M1898/05, was known as the a/A (alter Art = older model) and was used with the 8 mm Mauser Gewehr 98 rifle.

It lacks a flash guard, which is correct for this early version and has a vestigial (partial) muzzle ring, often referred to as having "high ears." These were often ground away, as is the case with this example.

It carries the Royal Cypher of Kaiser (Emperor) Wilhelm II of Prussia, who reigned 1888–1918.

On this original example, the pommel bears waffanampt inspection/acceptance stamps and these are also on the bolt heads of the grip.

It has the nine grooved wooden grips; one has a section missing by the crossguard. They held firmly in place with two undisturbed dome head bolts.

The release button is still present but does not currently move.

The swept back quillion has a vestigial muzzle ring, often referred to as “high ears”, that has been ground down.

The 36.5cm long single edged blade has a wide, single fuller, which meets the flat spine. The blade which is 26mm wide at the ricasso flares to a width of 33mm before tapering to a point earning its nickname the “Butcher’s Blade” because of its similarity to such knives. It retains a sharp blade edge with some old nicks.

It is now very faintly marked on the front ricasso with the rarer maker’s name “SIMSON & Co., SUHL”.

The spine is stamped with the Royal Cypher of Kaiser Wilhelm II of Prussia above the date stamp “15” for 1915 and a crowned acceptance stamp.

The blade now has an overall age tarnish and shows some pitting stains.

The bayonet is 19.7” (50cm) in total length and weighs 545g.

Please see my pictures for the details of the condition, which complement this description.

Please see my TERMS OF BUSINESS regarding Deliver Charges and Insurance regarding additional insurance cover, should you require it, BEFORE the item is dispatched.

The responsibility lies with the customer to check with your Customs restrictions that this item can be imported into your country.

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Code: 51227