RARE WW1 GERMAN ERSATZ ERSOC Bayonet & Scabbard P1853 Blade
Very Rare First World War Imperial German Army Ersatz Socket Blade Bayonet. It is well recognized by collectors that German Ersatz bayonets are amongst the rarest of WW1 German bayonets. Of these rarities, the socket blade, and especially the cruciform blade, tops the list.
These types of bayonets are also referred to as "Ersoc" (ersatz socket) or "Epee Ersatz". The term "ersatz" means substitute or replacement. There is a popular theory that these types of bayonets were the result or war material shortages near the end of the WW1. However, the fact that most of these bayonets were made in 1915-16 supports the idea of a rapid arming of a quickly growing German army. This particular bayonet is made from the blade of a British 1853 Pattern socket bayonet and a pressed steel handle which resembles the traditional Imperial German grip and pommel.
The mortise has a T O slot which allows it to fit the 1888 & 1898 Commission Gewehr rifles. Although there is no paint remaining on the bayonet or scabbard, it is covered in a very nice antique patina. The coiled spring press stud functions well. Most of these types of bayonets do not come with scabbards as they were made of sheet metal and therefore very fragile.
This one is missing the top mount. This bayonet would make a very nice addition to any collectors gallery. Characteristics of this particular Ersoc are. Side-mounted British P1853 blade with acceptance stamp bearing two German Imperial?
Open "high ears" muzzle ring. Clearing hole placed well forward on the grip near hilt. Muzzle Ring Diameter: 16.5 mm.
The item "RARE WW1 GERMAN ERSATZ ERSOC Bayonet & Scabbard P1853 Blade" is in sale since Sunday, October 7, 2018. This item is in the category "Collectibles\Militaria\WW I (1914-18)\Original Period Items\Germany\Edged Weapons".
The seller is "tanzer28" and is located in Windsor, Ontario. This item can be shipped worldwide.
- Modified Item: No
- Country/Region of Manufacture: Germany