Swiss Model 1957 knife bayonet for use with the 7.5×55mm Sturmgewehr 57 (Stgw.57) service rifle, complete with its original black-painted steel scabbard. The bayonet features a bright, single-edged spear-point blade with shallow fullers, ribbed black synthetic grip scales, steel crossguard with muzzle ring, and mortised pommel with push-button release. The robust construction and refined machining are characteristic of Swiss military production.
The blade is marked on the ricasso with the circular “W + F” inspection mark, indicating acceptance and assembly by Waffenfabrik Bern, and is serial-numbered V / 83681, identifying Victorinox (Schwyz) as the blade manufacturer. The grip bears the oval “M” (or W) mould mark, as seen on period-correct examples.
The bayonet is housed in its correct steel scabbard, finished in black paint, with Swiss inspection, batch, and manufacturer markings clearly visible to the reverse and throat. Starburst with “72” indicating manufacture in 1972. Batch code: B / 3015. Inspector’s mark: K9. The throat is stamped “P” for Paillard AG, St. Croix, a known Swiss military contractor for scabbard fittings.
Historical Note:
The Bajonett Mod. 1957 was developed for the Swiss Sturmgewehr 57, a selective-fire service rifle widely regarded as one of the finest infantry weapons of the Cold War era. Despite its designation, the Stgw.57 is not an assault rifle in the modern sense but a precision-engineered battle rifle, reflecting Switzerland’s emphasis on accuracy, durability, and manufacturing excellence. Production of the rifle ran from 1958 to 1983, with bayonets remaining in service well beyond this period.
To avoid monopolisation and ensure industrial resilience, the Swiss government divided military blade production evenly between Wenger and Victorinox. Victorinox later acquired Wenger in 2005, though both names remain historically significant within Swiss military collecting.
*Condition*
Bayonet is in very good service condition, retaining a bright blade with light handling marks and no major damage. The grip shows honest service wear consistent with issue use. Scabbard retains much of its original black finish with expected scuffs, abrasions, and small losses from field carry. All markings remain clear and legible. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
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*We also reserve the right to cancel the transaction with a full refund if there is any suspicion that the provided item will be used in any way contrary to the laws and legislation of UK.
