A World War I German S98/05 sawback bayonet manufactured by Waffenfabrik Mauser A.G., Oberndorf a.N., one of the principal producers of this pattern during the Great War. This example remains in excellent overall condition and displays very well, with an excellent condition bright blade.

Hilt & Grips
Fitted with walnut grips, showing an attractive, rich colour and remaining in excellent condition. The grips are secured by the usual two original screw bolts. The rifle retaining button is fully functional. The hilt bears a single Imperial acceptance stamp to the top. The flash guard remains in excellent condition, free from the indentations often encountered on these bayonets.

Blade
The blade is in very fine condition, remaining bright with a clean appearance. It has been sharpened but not excessively and retains a strong, well-defined tip. The sawback teeth are extremely sharp and fully intact, making this a much better-than-average example. The spine is correctly marked with the Imperial crown over “W”, the date 1917, and an additional acceptance stamp beneath.

Scabbard
The steel scabbard remains in very good condition and retains its original throat screw. Inspection stamps are present to both the throat and the lower ball. A decent amount of the original bluing survives, particularly to the front face, with more honest wear to the reverse. A couple of very minor indentations are present, only noticeable on close inspection. The blade fits the scabbard snugly and correctly.

Frog
Accompanied by an original wartime leather frog, correct for this pattern bayonet. The frog is structurally sound, with all four rivets intact and the original stitching present throughout. The leather remains thick and strong. There is some visible damage to the rear of the frog; however, this does not affect its structural integrity and is best assessed from the photographs.

Overall
A very nice S98/05 sawback bayonet in very good, highly collectible condition. An honest example with strong markings, excellent blade condition, and correct original accessories. A desirable piece for the German WWI bayonet collector.

Historical Note
The sawback version of the S98/05 bayonet was primarily issued to pioneer and engineer units, with the saw intended for field construction and utility work. During the First World War, sawback bayonets accounted for only a small percentage of total S98/05 production compared to standard plain-bladed examples. Due to wartime controversy and post-war modification or destruction, original intact sawback bayonets are significantly scarcer today.

All items are carefully packed for safe transit.