Argentinian M1891 Bayonet and Scabbard by Weyersberg, Kirschbaum & Cie, Solingen. c.1893

*Argentinian M1891 Bayonet and Scabbard by Weyersberg, Kirschbaum & Cie, Solingen. c.1893*

This bayonet was designed to fit the Modelo Argentino 1891 Mauser Infantry Rifle, which was produced under a contract with German manufacturer Weyersberg, Kirschbaum, and Cie. Initially, these bayonets featured brass grips, but around the middle of 1893, production transitioned to lighter aluminum grips. Approximately 190,000 bayonets with aluminum grips were produced between 1893 and 1901.

Argentina made a strategic decision to opt for a bayonet with a 400 mm (15.75 in) blade, as they anticipated that Chile might adopt a shorter 250 mm (10 in) blade bayonet for their Mauser rifles. This choice was made during a period of heightened tensions between Argentina and Chile in the 1880s and 1890s, as their international border, one of the world's third-longest, remained disputed in certain areas, even to the present day.

The bayonet's grip material is an alloy of aluminum, containing 6 percent copper. Features a steel crossguard and a hooked "blade-breaker" quillon and a push-button latching mechanism. The blade is straight, single-edged with fullers on both sides. On the ricasso of the blade, are the markings "Weyersberg, Kirschbaum & Cie / Solingen" on one side and "Modelo Argentino 1891" on the opposite side. It is likely that it originally bore the Argentine Crest, but this marking would have been removed when the bayonet was released from the arsenal as surplus stock. The bayonet also has the serial number, S5782, with bayonets and scabbards being numbered in relation to the rifle with which they were issued. The spine of the blade is marked with an "A" star, while the left side of the crosspiece is marked with "R," and the right side bears a "P" star. Both grips feature an "M" enclosed within a circle. The bayonet boasts a 394 mm blade and an overall length of 517 mm.

The scabbard accompanying this bayonet is fashioned from sheet-rolled steel and features a ball finial with a dark "blued" finish, which appears almost black. The ball finial is marked with "RA" inside an oval, representing the Argentine property mark, symbolizing Republica Argentina. This mark replaced the earlier "E.N" (Ejercito Nacional or National Army) property mark.

*Condition*
This bayonet is in excellent condition. The blade has minor pitting and no nicks. The cross bar and pommel show minor discolouration/ The mortice button works well and the scabbard fits snugly. The scabbard shows age related wear and tear. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.

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