Here we have a very fine example of the British Pattern 1907 bayonet, dated 1917 and manufactured by Chapman. Chapman is a comparatively scarce maker when set against more commonly encountered producers such as Wilkinson, Sanderson, and Enfield, making this a particularly desirable example for the collector.

This bayonet is further enhanced by Officer Training Corps markings to the pommel, adding an interesting and attractive training and educational service history.

Blade

The blade on this example is superb. It retains a crisp profile with a clean fuller and shows only light darkening towards the tip, as visible in the photographs. The blade retains its original factory edge profile and shows no signs of abuse, heavy wear, or post-war re-sharpening, making this an excellent blade overall.

The ricasso is stamped with the crowned 1907 pattern designation, over 4 / 17, indicating manufacture in April 1917, with the scarce maker Chapman stamped beneath. The reverse ricasso displays the expected British inspection stamps, including individual inspector marks and an “X” indicating that the blade passed the bend test. These marking’s are consistent with British wartime acceptance and quality control procedures.

Hilt & Grips

The wooden grips are in excellent condition, showing honest service wear with a slightly darker tone to one side, as often seen. The grip screws remain correct and undisturbed, and the locking button mechanism functions as it should.

The pommel is stamped O.T.C, denoting Officer Training Corps issue. Beneath this is A.M.F over 185, commonly attributed to Ampleforth College Officer Training Corps, with the number representing a rack or inventory designation. These markings add notable character and historical interest to the piece.

Scabbard

The bayonet is accompanied by its correct Pattern 1907 leather scabbard. The leather is a rich brown colour and remains supple and well preserved. Faint markings are present to the rear, including a lightly visible 17, consistent with the bayonet’s 1917 production period, though these markings are now very weak.

Both the upper and lower metal fittings retain their original staples, and the bayonet fits the scabbard extremely well, with a snug, secure fit.

Overall

A very attractive and historically interesting British Pattern 1907 bayonet by a scarce maker, featuring excellent blade condition, clear markings, and desirable Officer Training Corps provenance. A strong collectors example.

Historical Note

The Pattern 1907 bayonet was adopted for use with the Short Magazine Lee-Enfield rifle and became the standard British bayonet of the First World War. Produced in vast numbers by multiple makers to meet wartime demand, examples by less common manufacturers such as Chapman are increasingly sought after today. Bayonets issued to Officer Training Corps units were used to train future officers and often saw prolonged service within educational and military training establishments.

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