Here we have a very nice condition WW2 German K98 bayonet, produced by Carl Eickhorn of Solingen, one of the most recognised makers of edged weapons during the Third Reich era.

Blade:

The blade is in near mint condition, and would be extremely hard to upgrade, retaining approximately 99% of its original wartime bluing, and remains unsharpened, leading into a sharp tip. One side of the blade is stamped on the ricasso with the serial number 9819, while the spine is stamped with the number 36, confirming production in 1936. The reverse bears the maker’s code S/172 denoting Carl Eickhorn.

Hilt & Grip:

The wooden grips are in very good condition, showing minimal service wear, and secured with two screw bolts. The rifle retaining button functions perfectly and is Waffenamt stamped, with two additional Waffenamt stamps visible above it on the hilt. There are also a further two more Waffenamt markings on the flash guard, which is not always seen. The crossguard and pommel retain most of their original bluing, showing only light use.

Scabbard:

The scabbard shows surface rust and has a very faint indentation on the reverse, though you have to look quite closely to spot it. It’s clear this example once was fitted with a frog, as the bluing beneath the frog area is better preserved. The throat screw is present, and the lower ball displays a Waffenamt stamp. The front bears the serial number 5623, while the reverse is stamped J.Sch 1938, identifying the maker as Jetter Scheerer Tuttingen.

Overall, a very nice K98 bayonet with a superb blade.

Historic Note:

The S-code system was introduced around 1934 by the German ordnance department to disguise Solingen blade manufacturers as Germany began its secret rearmament program, in breach of the Treaty of Versailles. Each manufacturer was assigned a code, with S/172 designating Carl Eickhorn. By 1937, this system was discontinued, and firms once again began using full-name markings.