British "removed shield" bayonet

Dateca.1730-1740

MediumIron & steel

DimensionsSocket: 4" Blade: 17 1/8" x 1 1/4" Overall: 22"

Credit LineMuseum Purchase

Object number2004-132

Label TextAfter a hiatus in bayonet manufacture from 1749 to 1755, a new pattern was introduced when production resumed in 1756. This updated model simply eliminated the filed "shield" shaped decoration at the junction of the shank and the socket.

This cost-cutting measure meant that those "shield" bayonets still in store would be instantly identifiable as being of the "old pattern." They would therefore be perceived as substandard and undesirable by the units that were issued them. To solve the problem, Board of Ordnance workmen simply filed & polished this tell-tale feature off.

Originally made as a Pattern 1727 type bayonet, this example's "shield" was removed. It still retains key indicators of its early vintage, including its long, forward sweeping shank attached to the front edge of the socket, and an over-length blade.
InscribedA large "6" is engraved on the top of the socket near the muzzle end.
MarkingsThere is an illegible mark (possibly a 'broad arrow') at the shank to blade junction, and there are other illegible marks on the front face of the shank.