An interesting German K98 bayonet manufactured by E.u.F. Hörster and dated 1938, later refurbished for post-war service. Whilst retaining all the characteristics of an original wartime German K98 bayonet, this example shows evidence of having undergone arsenal refurbishment after the war, resulting in an exceptionally tidy appearance with almost complete bluing remaining throughout.

Refurbished K98 bayonets have become collectable in their own right, representing the continued military use of captured German equipment long after the Second World War had ended. This example displays several features commonly associated with post-war refurbishment and remains in superb overall condition.

Blade

The blade retains 100% of its blued finish and presents exceptionally well. It remains unsharpened and has an extremely pointed tip.

It is believed that during refurbishment the blade was lightly re-profiled and re-pointed, likely removing a small amount of material from the tip. As a result, the blade appears approximately 5mm shorter than standard examples and now possesses a very sharp, needle-like point. The spine is marked 38, indicating 1938 production. The ricasso is marked E.u.F. Hörster, with serial number 196 to the reverse.

Hilt & Grips

The original black Bakelite grip plates are fitted and remain in very good condition with no cracks, chips, or repairs noted. Both original grip screws remain present. The flash guard remains in excellent condition and has been refinished during refurbishment. The rifle retaining button functions correctly and operates as intended.

Above the release button, the remains of two Waffenamt inspection stamps are still visible. These appear to have been partially reduced during refurbishment, although both inspection marks can still be identified.

Scabbard

The scabbard remains in superb condition and retains virtually all of its blued finish. A Waffenamt inspection stamp remains visible on the lower ball finial. The throat is secured by an aluminium rivet rather than the original screw. This feature is commonly encountered on post-war refurbished K98 bayonets and is believed to relate to arsenal refurbishment work carried out after the war.

The rear of the scabbard is marked E.u.F. Hörster 1940, while the front carries serial number 5879. Although the numbers do not match the bayonet, it is pleasing to find both bayonet and scabbard produced by the same maker. The bayonet fits the scabbard perfectly with a snug fit.

Overall

A superb post-war refurbished German K98 bayonet by the highly regarded maker E.u.F. Hörster. Retaining virtually all of its blued finish throughout, this is an exceptionally clean and attractive example.

Whilst collectors seeking completely untouched wartime examples may prefer an original finish example, refurbished bayonets tell an important part of the story of post-war military re-use and continued service. This example remains an honest and highly presentable collector’s.

Historical Note

Following the end of the Second World War, large quantities of German weapons, bayonets, helmets and equipment were taken into service by a number of European nations. Many were refurbished, refinished and reissued for military use rather than being discarded. These refurbishment programmes extended the service life of German equipment for many years and created a distinct collecting field in their own right, documenting the continued military use of wartime matériel during the post-war period.

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