An impressive and heavy-duty example of the Swiss Model 1914 Pioneer sawback bayonet, maker marked HSW and dated 1938. Although the pattern was introduced in 1914, these bayonets continued to be produced well into the late 1930s as Switzerland maintained and mobilised its armed forces during the tense pre-war years. Swiss edged weapons are well known for their quality of manufacture, and this model is no exception – a robust and superbly made bayonet issued primarily to pioneer and engineer troops. These troops utilised the distinctive sawback spine for practical field work such as cutting wood and other engineering tasks.

Blade
The blade measures approximately 480mm in length and features a single fuller running along the right side. The spine carries 32 pairs of short sawback teeth, giving the bayonet its distinctive pioneer appearance. The blade remains very clean and bright overall. At some stage the edge appears to have been sharpened, likely during service. Near the tip there are a few very small edge nicks which are minor and only noticeable on close inspection; these will be shown clearly in the photographs. The ricasso is marked HSW along with the Swiss cross inspection mark and the date 1938.

Hilt & Grips
The hilt retains its light coloured wooden grips, believed to be walnut, and they remain in excellent condition. They are secured by the correct two large rivets passing through the tang. The rifle retaining button functions correctly. The bayonet is finished with the distinctive bird’s head style pommel typical of Swiss bayonets of this pattern.

Scabbard
The bayonet is accompanied by its steel scabbard which remains in excellent condition overall. The ball finial carries the Swiss cross as commonly seen on Swiss scabbards. The original throat screw is present. The scabbard is stamped with the letter P near the throat and again on the throat itself. The scabbard retains a very good shape and condition. There is an extremely slight indentation to the rear which is so minor it is unlikely to show in photographs and can only really be detected when running a finger over the area. The bayonet fits the scabbard perfectly, locking in place with a satisfying snap and sitting snugly with no movement once inserted.

Overall
A very impressive example of the Swiss Model 1914 pioneer sawback bayonet. These are substantial, high-quality bayonets and represent excellent value for money considering the engineering and craftsmanship involved. A fine addition for collectors of Swiss militaria or military bayonets in general.

Historical Note
The Swiss Model 1914 Pioneer sawback bayonet was issued primarily to engineer and pioneer units. Switzerland remained neutral during both World Wars but maintained a well-equipped and mobilised army. Production of this model continued into the late 1930s, with examples such as this 1938 dated bayonet reflecting Switzerland’s continued preparedness during the increasingly tense years leading up to the Second World War.

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