A very presentable and iconic German World War I S98/05 bayonet, widely known amongst collectors as the “Butcher Bayonet” due to its distinctive heavy blade profile which broadens towards the tip. This example is dated 1916 and manufactured by Waffenfabrik Mauser A.G. Oberndorf a/N, one of the principal wartime producers of this pattern.

A strong, honest example with a superb bright blade and matching scabbard.

Blade

The blade is superb, clean and bright, showing no rust. It retains an excellent profile and finishes with a good pointed tip. The blade has been sharpened, but it has not been over-sharpened or abused. It remains very attractive and well defined.

The ricasso is clearly marked Waffenfabrik Mauser A.G. Oberndorf a/N.On the spine we see a crowned “W” (Wilhelm), beneath which is the date 1916, followed by an inspection stamp. All markings are clear and legible. A very eye-catching bright blade overall.

Hilt & Grips

The wooden grip plates are in excellent condition. One side shows a darker tone while the reverse is lighter in colour — something commonly seen on these, often due to long-term resting against the frog or exposure differences. The contrast is attractive and completely honest.

This example features the flash guard, which is in excellent condition with no indentations.

The rifle retaining button functions correctly.

On the crossguard we have the serial number 5912. The “2” is more lightly struck than the other digits. This may be related to refurbishment work carried out during the post-war reissue period, when many WWI bayonets were reworked for continued service.

An inspection stamp is also present on the hilt.

Scabbard

The scabbard is in good condition, showing no dents or indentations. It retains its original throat and throat screw.

To the rear upper section of the scabbard is the matching maker mark Waffenfabrik Mauser A.G. Oberndorf a/N in small script (see photographs for close-up detail).

The colour and overall wear match the bayonet very well, and in my opinion this scabbard has always lived with this blade.

The bayonet fits the scabbard perfectly, with a smooth draw and a firm, satisfying snap when seated.

Frog

The leather frog remains structurally sound. Two rivets are missing, however the stitching remains strong and the frog holds firmly together. On one side, some stitching appears to have been replaced at some stage, but it has been done neatly and tightly. Overall, it remains solid and fully serviceable.

Overall

A very presentable and attractive 1916 dated S98/05 by Waffenfabrik Mauser A.G. Oberndorf a/N. Superb bright blade, matching scabbard, good grips, and an honest service-worn frog. A strong example of this iconic German WWI pattern that displays very well.

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