A scarce example of the Italian M1938 Folding Bayonet, designed for use with the Italian Carcano Modello 1938 short rifle.

This ingenious design features a folding spear-point blade with single fuller that locks neatly into the wooden grip when not in use, giving the soldier the convenience of a compact knife while still retaining a fixed bayonet when required. The folding hinge and catch are fully functional on this piece, and the blade overall remains in good condition with a sharp tip.

The wooden grips are in excellent condition, secured by two screws, showing only light service wear. One side of the grip carries the serial number (L 29512), in line with Italian practice of numbering bayonets to rifles.

It is complete with its correct blackened steel scabbard, showing honest service wear, but no dents. The bayonet draws with a fairly loose fit for the first half of the withdrawal, before firming up towards the tip, something not unusual with these wartime scabbards. The scabbard belt loop remains solid.

A very interesting and scarce bayonet.