German, WW2 – Dated 1941, Matching K98 (Seitengewehr 84/98 III) Bayonet & Scabbard by E. & F. Hörster, Solingen – “asw 41”  6288 ?

*German, WW2 – Dated 1941, Matching K98 (Seitengewehr 84/98 III) Bayonet & Scabbard by E. & F. Hörster, Solingen – “asw 41”  6288 ?*

An original German Second World War K98 Mauser bayonet (Seitengewehr 84/98 III pattern) complete with its original matching steel scabbard, manufactured in 1941 by E. & F. Hörster of Solingen and marked with the wartime maker code “asw 41.” This is a desirable matching-number example, with the serial number 6288 together with its small suffix letter ? stamped to both the bayonet and scabbard throat. The set retains its classic wartime configuration with blued single-fullered blade, ribbed black grip plates, steel pommel, and original steel scabbard.

The obverse ricasso is stamped with the matching serial number 6288 above a small suffix letter ?, repeated identically to the scabbard throat, while the reverse ricasso carries the maker and date code “41 asw” for E. & F. Hörster of Solingen. The pommel bears a visible WaA88 Waffenamt inspection stamp, representative of acceptance marks commonly encountered on wartime E. & F. Hörster-produced K98 bayonets of this period.

The bayonet measures approximately 25.2 cm in blade length and 38.6 cm overall. The blade remains bright with a good surviving profile and edge, retaining much of its original wartime finish within the fuller and along protected areas of the blade. The grips are complete and secure with no visible cracks, showing the characteristic moulded diagonal rib pattern associated with the S84/98 III pattern. The press stud and locking mechanism remain present and functional, although the release button is noted as slightly loose in operation.

The steel scabbard retains matching serial markings and displays an untouched wartime patina with scattered oxidation, age staining, and honest service wear consistent with military use. The frog stud remains intact, and the overall set presents very well as an original paired wartime example that has remained together since service.

Approx. Measurements – Blade length: 25.2 cm. Overall length: 38.6 cm.

History Note:
The Seitengewehr 84/98 III was the standard bayonet issued to the German Wehrmacht for use with the Karabiner 98k rifle throughout the Second World War. Wartime production was distributed amongst several Solingen manufacturers working under coded markings intended to conceal industrial identities. The maker code “asw” corresponds to E. & F. Hörster & Co., one of the principal wartime producers of German edged weapons and bayonets. Matching-number examples are increasingly sought after by collectors, as many surviving bayonets encountered today are assembled from mismatched wartime and post-war components.

*Condition*
Very good original condition overall. Blade generally clean with light age-related staining and minor surface marks. Grips complete and secure. Matching serial numbers to bayonet and scabbard. Waffenamt inspection mark visible to pommel. Scabbard shows surface patina, oxidation, and service wear throughout. Bayonet catch functions correctly, though the release button is slightly loose. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.

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