Czech, c1970, VZ-58 Bayonet, with Black Leather Scabbard

*Czech, c1970, VZ-58 Bayonet, with Black Leather Scabbard*

16.5cm blade, 28cm overall

"0921 Z" on the ricasso, "037" 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 example has a short tang, but incorporates the lower crossguard extension. This variant has a single rivet securing the composition grip scales. The grip material is beech particleboard bonded with phenol formaldehyde resin. The grip was made in two halves, which were then bonded together with epoxy resin. The lower crossguard extension, adopted around 1970, aimed to enhance grip during bayonet dismounting or when using it as a hand weapon.

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

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