Swiss, SIG Stgw.57 Model 1957 Bayonet, Scabbard and Leather Frog, Made by Wenger

*Swiss, SIG Stgw.57 Model 1957 Bayonet, Scabbard and Leather Frog, Made by Wenger*

A complete Swiss M1957 bayonet set comprising bayonet, scabbard, and leather frog, issued for the renowned Stgw.57 (Sturmgewehr 57) 7.5mm selective-fire rifle.

The bayonet features a polished double-edged spear-point blade, measuring approx. 23.5 cm (overall length 37.2 cm). The ricasso is stamped with the “W+F” Waffenfabrik Bern mark, confirming factory assembly, while the reverse bears the serial W 344134, the prefix “W” identifying Wenger as the blade supplier. The bayonet features a ribbed plastic grip with a release catch located at the rear of the pommel and a front cross guard. The ribbed black plastic grips are stamped with the “G over M” (Goverm) mould mark, denoting production by Goverm, one of the Swiss subcontractors for bayonet grips. The pommel has the correct hollow slot and press-stud release.

The black-painted steel scabbard carries full Swiss inspection and maker markings on the reverse: a starburst with “81” denoting manufacture in 1981, a batch code “B / 3015”, and an inspector’s code “K9”. The throat piece appears to bear the script “P” mark of Paillard AG, St. Croix, a noted supplier of scabbard fittings.

The bayonet is fitted with its correct brown leather belt frog, stamped “SIMON NUSSBAUM / 86 / OTTOBERG”, confirming production in 1986. This frog is catalogued by Carter as #588 in his definitive reference work. The frog dispensed with the leather strap previously mounted on the scabbard. Instead, the frog had it's own strap to attach to the metal loop on the scabbard.

This example is a fully attributed and complete Swiss M1957 bayonet rig, with all components correctly identified:
-Blade: Wenger (W prefix)
-Assembly: Waffenfabrik Bern (W+F)
-Grips: Goverm (G/M mold mark)
-Scabbard body: 1981 production, marked with Swiss acceptance and codes
-Scabbard throat: Paillard AG (script P)
-Frog: Simon Nussbaum, Ottoberg, 1986 (Carter #588)

Historical Note:
The Bajonett Mod. 1957 was introduced alongside the Sturmgewehr 57, manufactured by SIG (Schweizerische Industrie-Gesellschaft). Although officially designated an “assault rifle,” the Stgw.57 is more accurately described as a selective-fire battle rifle, chambered for the powerful 7.5×55mm GP11 cartridge. At approximately 110 cm in length and weighing around 6 kg, it was both large and heavy compared to contemporary rifles, but delivered outstanding accuracy and rugged reliability. The Stgw.57 entered service in the late 1950s, replacing the Modell 1931 Carbine, the standard light machine gun, and most submachine guns then in use. It remained the Swiss Army’s standard service rifle from 1957 until the 1990s, when it was superseded by the lighter Stgw.90 (Assault Rifle 90). Often described as the “Rolls Royce” of service rifles, the Stgw.57 was in production from 1958 to 1983 and enjoyed an exceptionally long service life thanks to its precision engineering and robust design.

Bayonet production was divided between Wenger and Victorinox, a government policy to avoid industrial conflict. Wenger’s role is confirmed here by the “W” serial prefix. In 2005, Wenger was acquired by Victorinox, though both names continue to be associated with Swiss military cutlery and bayonets.

*Condition*
The bayonet remains in very good condition, with a bright polished blade and crisp markings. The Goverm-manufactured grips are intact and secure, showing light handling wear. The steel scabbard retains its finish, though with honest surface scratching from service use. The original leather securing tab is absent, so the scabbard is carried via frogs made for the M1957 and later M1990 bayonets. The frog itself is solid, with clear maker’s stamp, supple leather, and strong stitching. Please see photographs as art of the condition report.

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