Austria, c.1900, Steyr-Made Mauser Model 1871/84 Rifle Bayonet

*Austria, c.1900, Steyr-Made Mauser Model 1871/84 Rifle Bayonet*

Knife bayonet for the Mauser Model 1871/84 pattern, manufactured by the Österreichische Waffenfabrik-Gesellschaft (ÖWG), Steyr. The blade measures 24.8 cm, with an overall length of 38.1 cm. The left ricasso is stamped “OE” over “WG”, the well-known Steyr factory mark, and the pommel bears the serial number 16481. This is the standard single-edged blade with muzzle ring and push-button locking catch, correctly configured for Mauser service.

Approx. Measurements- Blade length: 24.8 cm. Overall length: 38.1 cm

Historical Note:
Although based on the German Mauser M1871/84 system, these Steyr-produced bayonets are generally accepted as export manufacture around the turn of the 20th century, intended for use with Gewehr 88 (Commission Rifle) variants produced for foreign contracts, particularly for China and South America. Steyr was a major exporter of complete rifles and bayonets during this period, supplying both German-pattern arms and bespoke export models. It is also believed that stocks of Gewehr 88 rifles and associated M1871/84 bayonets remaining in Steyr depots were later pressed into Austro-Hungarian service during the First World War, reflecting the pragmatic re-use of available arms during wartime shortages. The ÖWG firm itself survives today as Steyr, giving this bayonet a direct lineage to one of Europe’s most important historic arms manufacturers.

*Condition*
Good honest service condition, with age-appropriate wear and patina consistent with a turn-of-the-century bayonet. Markings remain clear, the serial number to the pommel is legible, and the overall form is sound. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.

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