Swiss, c.1914–1941, M1914 Schmidt–Rubin Sawback Bayonet, by Waffenfabrik Neuhausen, with Steel Scabbard by Paillard AG of St. Croix

*Swiss, c.1914–1941, M1914 Schmidt–Rubin Sawback Bayonet, by Waffenfabrik Neuhausen, with Steel Scabbard by Paillard AG of St. Croix*

A fine and exceptionally well-preserved example of the Swiss Model 1914 Sawback Bayonet (Sägebajonett Mod. 1914), manufactured by Waffenfabrik Neuhausen, paired with its correct steel scabbard by Paillard AG of St. Croix, identifiable by the cursive P inspection mark.

The single-edged swell-point blade measures approximately 47.8 cm (18.8 in), with an overall length of 60.7 cm (23.9 in). It is fullered on one face only and fitted with a sawback spine of 28 deep-cut teeth. The ricasso is crisply stamped “WAFFENFABRIK NEUHAUSEN”, denoting production at the Swiss federal arms factory at Neuhausen am Rheinfall. The hilt has wooden grips secured by two rivets through a full tang, terminating in a bird’s-head pommel with integral spring catch. The steel crossguard carries a forward-swept quillon and round muzzle ring, bearing the Swiss federal cross inspection mark.

The steel scabbard, introduced in 1938 to replace earlier leather types, retains much of its original nickel-plated finish with light patina and traces of lacquer around the soldered seams. Both frog stud and throat are stamped with the cursive “P” of Paillard AG, and the ball finial bears a Swiss federal cross proof.

History:
Although Switzerland remained neutral during the First World War, its policy of armed neutrality required full mobilisation to defend its borders. The M1914 Sawback Bayonet was designed for the 7.5 mm Schmidt–Rubin M1911 carbine and later paired with the M1931 (K31) short rifle. The sawback served practical engineering purposes—cutting timber and brush—rather than offensive use.

Production was shared among Waffenfabrik Neuhausen (SIG), Elsener Schwyz (Victorinox), and H. Steimer AG, Wasen im Emmental. From 1938 onward, the original leather scabbards were replaced by the present steel pattern, many retrofitted to earlier blades. When issued with K31 rifles, the M1914 was reserved for engineers, blacksmiths, artillery drivers, saddle-makers, and transport personnel, reflecting its hybrid role as tool and weapon.

The Paillard AG mark, on the scabbard, denotes manufacture by the distinguished Swiss precision firm founded in 1814 at St. Croix, Vaud. Originating as a watchmaker, Paillard became renowned for its music boxes, phonographs, typewriters, radios, and the celebrated Bolex motion-picture cameras. The company’s brief military production during the interwar years exemplified the same meticulous craftsmanship found in its world-famous civilian products.

*Condition*
An outstanding, likely unissued example, showing only light storage wear. The blade retains a mirror-bright factory polish with sharply defined sawteeth and a deeply struck maker’s mark. Ricasso mark clear. Guard and pommel with light age patina; grips smooth and secure. Scabbard with minor surface wear and shallow dents, retaining good finish and legible markings. Release catch operates correctly. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.

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