A very nice World War II German K98 bayonet by E.u.F. Hörster, dated 1939, complete with its original 1941 leather frog. Featuring a near mint blade, attractive reddish-brown Bakelite grips, and a period-mismatched but original scabbard, this is a good honest example that displays well.

Blade

The blade is in near mint condition, retaining approximately 98% of its original blued finish. It remains unsharpened and is free from any significant damage, terminating in a good, sharp original tip. The ricasso is stamped with the serial number 6357, while the reverse bears the maker’s mark E.u.F. Hörster. The spine is dated 39, denoting manufacture in 1939.

Hilt & Grips

The bayonet retains its original reddish-brown Bakelite grip plates, one displaying a slightly lighter shade than the other, giving the piece an attractive period appearance. Both original grip screws remain in place. The rifle retaining button operates correctly. The pommel carries two Waffenamt acceptance stamps, while the flash guard also bears a Waffenamt stamp and remains in very good condition with no noticeable indentations.

Scabbard

The original steel scabbard shows honest service wear, including a couple of shallow indentations, the most noticeable being to the front. It retains the original throat screw and is stamped with the non-matching serial number 7287. The reverse is maker marked Rich. A. Herder and dated 1937. A Waffenamt acceptance stamp is present on the lower ball of the scabbard. The outline of where a frog has rested against the scabbard over many years remains clearly visible.

Frog

The bayonet is complete with a very good original 1941 leather frog. The leather remains strong and supple with all original stitching and all four rivets intact. Although the maker’s mark has faded with age, it is still visible, together with the 1941 date, which is a desirable feature as many frog markings have disappeared through decades of service and wear.

Overall

The bayonet fits the scabbard securely with a satisfying positive click. Overall, this is a very attractive World War II K98 bayonet with an excellent near mint blade, desirable E.u.F. Hörster manufacture, and an original dated frog, making it a very nice example.

Historical Note

The German K98 bayonet was the standard bayonet issued for use with the Karabiner 98k rifle throughout the Second World War. It was carried by soldiers across every branch of the German armed forces, including the Heer, Waffen-SS, Luftwaffe, and Kriegsmarine. While intended as a close-combat weapon, it was equally valued as a general-purpose field tool for everyday military tasks. Today, the K98 bayonet has become one of the most recognisable and iconic pieces of German military equipment, making original wartime examples a must have piece by German bayonet collectors.

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