Description
Physical description
Pommel-socket form: configuration of pommel resembles the offset socket for the No 4 series of spike bayonets and utilises the same means of attachment - the internal radial plate locking catch worked via a spring plunger. The pommel of WEA 528 is unusual in that it may be rotated and locked securely in either of two positions by means of a grooved spring-loaded locking catch located on the back of the hilt. Locked in its carrying, or 'stowed', position the pommel-socket performs the traditional functions of the edged weapon's 'pommel' - adding weight and balance to the hilt and protecting the flat end of the grips. To attach the bayonet to the No 4 rifle the spring-loaded catch is pushed forward and the pommel-socket rotated 180 degrees where a slot engages with the locking catch. In this attitude the socket projects high above the back of the hilt.
Grips form: two-piece, 'tufnel', plastic impregnated cloth, retained by two screw bolts with slotted nuts. Much of the back of the grips is cut away to accommodate the socket locking catch, but a short section, immediately behind crossguard, is well rounded. Underside of grips completely enclose tang and is provided with three broad finger grooves for comfortable handling.
Crossguard form: identical to that for the No 5 series - short, straight crosspiece. The tapered and round ended lower guard being provided with the usual 6 mm hole, see Notes to WEA 525 and WEA 603. The 'upper' guard is formed into a very wide and full muzzle ring.
Blade form: identical to that for the No 5 series - slim, single-edged with double-edged bowie style clip point, fullered. Back rounded, fuller stops squared.
Hilt (all metal parts) finish: heavily blacked.
Blade finish: bright steel.
(Related item: scabbard)
Label
Post-1945 British No 7 Mark I/L knife bayonet, bowie blade, with scabbard. Blade dated 1948. Original hand-written caption associated with this piece states '..very similar to the No.5 but has a catch release in the hilt which permits the lowest section to be turned and convert the bayonet into a dagger. Blade 8 and a quarter inches long. Weight 13 and half ounces.'
History note
References: Carter, A & Walter, J 1974, (The) Bayonet Arms and Armour, London, pp 111-113 (ref 55, fig 262); Watts, J & White, P 1975, (The) Bayonet Book, Watts and White, pp 328 and 402.
Location of inscriptions relate to the pommel-socket locked in its carrying or "stowed" position
mark stamped pommel-socket (left side) F8//B//incomplete broad arrow
Inscription
mark stamped pommel-socket (spring plunger latch) broad arrow
Inscription
mark stamped crossguard (left side, facing blade) small broad arrow
Inscription
inscription stamped blade (left ricasso) (last character not clearly formed) No7 MK 1/L
Inscription
mark stamped blade (right ricasso) P in circle//1948