Early 1908 (1st Year Production) WW1 EFD (Enfield) Pattern 1907 Bayonet With Leather Scabbard.
A rare, early example of a WW1 Pattern 1907 sword bayonet by the Royal Small Arms Factory, Enfield for use with the Short Magazine Lee Enfield (SMLE) rifle. The bayonet is in good, antique condition with the locking button functional. This is a rare first year manufactured bayonet and is dated 1908 so would originally have had the hooked quillon. There is another later date stamp for 1915. This is probably a refurbishment date where the hook would have been removed (they were not popular with servicemen and were removed after 1913). A further date stamp for 1925 was most likely for a re-inspection or re-issue.
Marks (left ricasso) : Crown and "E.R." (Edward Rex - King Edward VII) over "1907" (pattern model) over "11" and "08" (manufacture date - November, 1908) over "EFD" (manufacturer - Royal Small Arms Factory, Enfield).
Marks (right ricasso) : War Office broad arrow and "X" (bend test stamp) with a number of Enfield inspection stamps. "15" (1915 refurbishment) and "25" (1925 re-inspection / re-issue).
Marks (grip) : Impressed crown
Scabbard : Double-stitched leather with steel top-mount and chape. The bayonet inserts / withdraws smoothly and is held firmly in the scabbard.
Length (bayonet) : 55.5 cm
Length (blade) : 43 cm
Length (in scabbard) : 57.5cm
