British, Dated 1888, Pattern 1876 “Bayonet Common Long” Socket Bayonet for the Martini-Henry Rifle, with Brass-Mounted Scabbard
British Pattern 1876 Martini-Henry socket bayonet dated 1888, with War Department markings and original brass-mounted leather scabbard — a classic late-Victorian Imperial service example.
*British, Dated 1888, Pattern 1876 “Bayonet Common Long” Socket Bayonet for the Martini-Henry Rifle, with Brass-Mounted Scabbard*
An original British Pattern 1876 socket bayonet, officially termed the Bayonet Common Long, produced for use with the .577/450 calibre Martini-Henry rifle. This classic late-Victorian socket bayonet features the long triangular-section steel blade with locking ring and mortise slot, designed to mount directly onto the rifle muzzle.
The ricasso is crisply stamped with British ordnance marks including the Broad Arrow over WD, together with inspection and service markings comprising R, crown over E inspection stamp, 27, and date /88, confirming late-period acceptance or inspection in 1888. Additional crowned inspection marks are present to the reverse face, consistent with ordnance viewing and re-inspection practice.
The bayonet is accompanied by its original black leather scabbard with brass throat and chape. The throat is stamped 53 together with Broad Arrow and crowned inspection mark over E / 39, while the brass shoe carries a further Broad Arrow over WD, confirming War Department ownership throughout its service life. The triangular mouth remains correct to the blade profile.
Approx. Measurements – Blade length: 54.7 cm. Overall length: 63.7 cm.
Historical Note:
The Pattern 1876 socket bayonet represents the final evolution of Britain’s long triangular socket bayonet tradition, developed for the Martini-Henry rifle at a time when the British Army was engaged across the Empire. Closely associated with the Zulu War era, this pattern saw widespread service from the late 1870s onward and remained in use and reserve stores well into the 1880s as newer small-bore rifles were introduced.
The 1888-dated inspection mark reflects this later service phase, when many Martini-Henry bayonets were re-inspected, refurbished, and retained for training, colonial, and reserve use. The multiple crowned Enfield inspection marks illustrate the strict ordnance control applied to British small arms equipment throughout its working life.
*Condition*
Good solid service condition overall. Blade retains clear form with visible government and inspection stampings; showing expected age-related surface wear, light staining and minor pitting consistent with military use and long storage. Socket and locking ring remain intact and functional. The leather scabbard is complete and structurally sound with original brass mounts, displaying honest wear, minor surface marks and light verdigris consistent with age. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
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