Bayonet for the Brunswick rifle, Enfield make, British (1848)

Title	Bayonet for the Brunswick rifle, Enfield make
Nationality	British
Period	1848

Sold

MAGNIFY

This is a bit of a hybrid, inasmuch as it is clearly the 2nd pattern in date terms, yet still has the 1st pattern release catch. The VR and crown with Enfield 1848 is stamped on one side of the forte, while an Enfield inspection stamp is on the other.

This bayonet was for the Brunswick percussion rifle, firing a belted ball. The Brunswick succeeded the old Baker rifle when the new percussion ignition system came into use. The Brunswick rifle would have been carried by the 60th King's Royal Rifle Corps and the 95th Rifle Brigade as line regiments.

The blade is 21.75 inches long, typical of the slightly longer length of the 2nd pattern bayonets, but with what is quite patently the 1st pattern locking button. Clearly they went on using old hilts that were to hand, perhaps on pieces where the blade had been broken, hence the 2nd pattern blade.

Its condition is OK. There is scattered pitting and surface patination throughout, but, as these weapons go, it is a reasonably clean example. The leather washer between the blade and the hilt has rotted away (missing). The scabbard for this would have been leather with brass mounts, but these are rarely found.

If you want to comment on this item—re quality, age, etc—please email me.

[Edged Weapons : Bayonets : British : 19th Century]

online museum

account

testimonials