British, WW2, No. 4 Mk. II* Spike Bayonet and No. 4 Mk I Scabbard and Frog, Made by PSK (Prince-Smith & Stells, Keighly, Yorkshire)

*British, WW2, No. 4 Mk. II* Spike Bayonet and No. 4 Mk I Scabbard and Frog, Made by PSK (Prince-Smith & Stells, Keighly, Yorkshire)*

This is a British No. 4 Mk II* socket bayonet, manufactured during World War II by Prince-Smith & Stells Ltd. (P.S.K.) of Keighley, Yorkshire. This version of the bayonet was simplified for mass production, featuring a two-piece construction with the blade and socket forged separately, a distinguishing trait of the Mk II* pattern.

Markings and Identification:
Socket marked: "No. 4 MK II* P.S.K."
Serial number: 2058 stamped to reverse side
Faint marking “N56” visible on socket face

Blade and Dimensions:
Blade length: approx. 19 cm
Overall length: approx. 25 cm
The blade is cruciform in section, typical of the No. 4 bayonet series.

Scabbard:
Standard No. 4 Mk I metal scabbard with a round frog stud and ball finial.
Drain hole in the finial is visible.
Overall in good condition with surface wear consistent with age and service.

Frog:
Original khaki canvas web frog, hand-marked with soldier’s number “22498309”, adding personal and historical interest.

Background:
The No. 4 Mk II* bayonet was developed to reduce production complexity and cost. Unlike the earlier Mk I variants, the Mk II* used a two-piece construction, eliminating the need for milling the socket and blade from a single piece. This model was produced between 1942 and 1945, and Prince-Smith & Stells was the principal contractor, producing over 1 million units. Originally a textile machinery manufacturer, P.S.K. shifted to wartime production during WWII. The "No. 56" marking refers to a modification date adopted around 1943, aligning this bayonet with mid-war production.

*Condition*
The bayonet shows age-appropriate finish wear with no major damage or corrosion. The scabbard retains its original finish and shape, while the canvas frog remains intact with visible markings. The bayonet socket and blade junction displays the characteristic step from the two-piece forge process. Please refer to photographs as part of the condition report.

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