sword bayonet for Lee-Metford rifle & Pattern 1888 Mark I, second type / sword bayonet, Pattern 1888, Mark I [C]

description

Physical description

Pommel form: kidney-shaped with flat end housing a broad and very deep T-shaped attachment slot which, contrary to all previous practice, runs along the underside. The slot features a long circular hole, extending deep into the hilt, to accommodate the associated firearm's cleaning rod. [The rod was reclassified, 22 February 1892, as a "clearing" rod]. Raised end of the pommel's back is recessed to form a shallow groove designed to fit alongside the rifle's barrel. A small slotted press stud, high on left side, operates locking catch via an internal coiled spring. Pommel meets grips vertically. Grips form: two-piece wood retained by two flush-ground brass rivets with washers. Convex grips with both back and underside rounded and straight. A small circular cleaning hole runs transversely through grips immediately behind rivet nearer pommel. Crossguard form: short straight crosspiece, lower guard extends approximately 19 mm below blade and terminates in small flat disc finial swept towards blade. Upper guard formed into broad full muzzle ring, the rear of which is slightly stepped as it meets hilt back. Blade form: double-edged, tapering slightly to narrow spear point. A wide medial rib extends the full length of the blade. Bayonet (all metal parts) finish: bright finished.