Czech, c1975, Late Variant VZ-58 Bayonet, with Original Leather Scabbard

*Czech, c1975, Late Variant VZ-58 Bayonet, with Original Leather Scabbard*

17cm blade, 28.6cm overall

Marked "d8681" on the ricasso, "019" on the obverse.

Late production variant VZ-58 bayonet, designed for the 7.62 mm Czechoslovak VZ. 58 assault rifle (7.62 mm Samopal Vzor 58). While the VZ. 58 bears some external resemblance to the AK47, it boasts a distinct internal design. Unlike other Warsaw Pact nations, Czechoslovakia opted not to use the AK47 or AKM, instead introducing the unique VZ. 58. Engineer Jiří Čermák developed this rifle at Brno, with production taking place at Česká Zbrojovka a. s. in Uherský Brod from 1958 to 1984. Čermák served as a weapons designer at Brno from 1954 until his retirement in 1986. Although the Czech Republic's Army has initiated the replacement of the VZ. 58 with the CZ 805 BREN, the VZ. 58 continues to be in active service.

This late production bayonet features a full-length tang that extends beyond the grip scales, secured by two rivets. This full-length tang was the ultimate significant design modification, introduced after the addition of the lower crosspiece extension, likely around the mid-1970s. With the tang running the full length, the grip halves could no longer be epoxied together as was done with the short tang bayonets. The lower crossguard extension, adopted around 1970, aimed to enhance grip during bayonet dismounting or when using it as a hand weapon. The grip material is beech particleboard bonded with phenol formaldehyde resin.

*Condition*
There is some rusting to the blade but otherwise this fascinating Czech bayonet is in good condition, with the press button in good working order. The original leather scabbard is in good condition with stitching and rivets intact. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.

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