When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, this can result in this site earning a commission. Affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network.
First World War Imperial German Army (Bavarian State)Ersatz Bayonet with Belgian 1889 sawback removed blade.
It is well recognized by collectors that German Ersatzbayonets are amongst the rarest of WW1 German bayonets. This particular bayonetis one of the rarest “knife” blade ersatz bayonets.
The term “ersatz” means substitute or replacement.There is a popular theory that these types of bayonets were the result or warmaterial shortages near the end of the WW1. However, the fact that most ofthese bayonets were made in 1915-16 supports the idea of a rapid arming of aquickly expanding German army.
Because of this, many ersatz bayonets were not wellmade – although still considered rare. This particular design is regarded asone of the few designs made to high standards.
This particular bayonet is made from the blade of a Belgian 1889 Short InfantryBayonet (Ref #1) which in original condition is relatively scare(Ref 2); the fact that it this blade was used for this ersatz bayonet makes iteven more so (Ref #3).
At one time this bayonet had a sawback. However, itwas ground down. In 1917, the German High Command ordered the removal of thesawback – which was done by grinding the teeth down. This was done for tworeasons: the replacement of wooden barbed wire fence posts with steel rodposts, and effective Allied propaganda depicting the “Evil Hun” armed with asinister sawback bayonet.
Sawback bayonets made up 6% of a units issue and normallywere worn only by NCOs. Since this bayonet originally had a sawback, it wouldhave fallen into the 6% group.
The handle is made of pressed steel in a pattern whichresembles the traditional Imperial German grip and pommel. The mortise has a“T” “O” slot which and a full muzzle ring which allows it to fit captured theBelgian Model 1889 rifle. The coiled spring press stud functions well.
This bayonet has the Bavarian State Army stamping onthe blade spine; “Crown” over “L ” denotingKing Ludwig of Bavaria (1913-18).
SPECIFICATIONS:
Overall Length: 430 mm / 17 in
Blade Length: 310 mm / 12 in
Scabbard Length: 335 mm / 13 in
REFERENCES:
1) Janzen’s pg 17, # 2 (for the blade only)
2) Carter “World Bayonets” No. 122
3) Carter’s No. 58
4) Janzen’s pg 83, # 2
