A fine example of the Italian Model 1870 Vetterli bayonet, offered here complete with its leather scabbard. The bayonet presents very well overall, with a strong, clean blade and a solid scabbard that retains excellent fit.

Blade
The blade is in superb condition, retaining a bright finish with only very light, honest handling marks. No heavy pitting or abuse noted. The ricasso bears the crowned T.A. inspection mark, consistent with Italian acceptance stamps of the period. Overall, a very attractive blade that displays far better than most surviving examples.

Hilt & Grips
The hilt remains tight and sound, with no looseness at the guard or pommel. The wooden grip scales show honest age wear but remain solid and well-seated. The crossguard carries the serial number E5708, adding further interest to the piece.

Scabbard
Original leather scabbard with brass mounts. The leather body shows genuine service wear but remains intact and structurally strong. There is a line of period stamping present beneath the upper scabbard fitting, but due to age, this has become difficult to decipher. The brass fittings retain a pleasing aged tone, with small inspection or maker’s marks visible on the mounts, though now faint from age. Importantly, the bayonet fits the scabbard perfectly.

Overall
A very honest, attractive example of an Italian Vetterli Model 1870 bayonet set, combining a strong blade with a leather fitting scabbard. An honest untouched example that will appeal to collectors of Italian and 19th-century European edged weapons.

Historical Note
The Model 1870 bayonet was introduced alongside Italy’s adoption of the Vetterli rifle system and saw service through the late 19th century into the early years of the 20th. These bayonets reflect a period of rapid modernisation in the Italian Army, bridging the gap between traditional muzzle-loading arms and modern bolt-action service rifles.

All items are carefully packed for safe transit.