Imperial German M1871/84 Mauser Bayonet, regimentally marked “12 R. 12. 177” on the cross guard, marked on the spine of the blade with “(Crown) W” for Wilhelm I or II, along with the date which is unclear as well as the acceptance mark. Wood slab grips, rivetted in place and engraved crudely “MB”. The pommel is also marked with acceptance and Imperial marks. Ricasso marked “E & F Horster, Solingen”.
This bayonet is designed for the 11mm Mauser M1871/84 repeating rifle, but it’s also compatible with the earlier 11mm Mauser M1871 rifle and the 8mm M1888 Commission Rifle. It marked the introduction of knife bayonets as a standard issue in a major army, a practice still followed today.
Blade Length: 252mm
Overall Length: 378mm
Condition: Good, grips again are crudely marked, scabbard has some dark patches of rust but otherwise is a fair example. There’s also a deep pit in the blade along the fuller
