Germany, HJ. A Customized Dress Bayonet

(HJ Bajonett). An interesting, well-preserved, owner-customized HJ dress bayonet, measuring 33 cm in total length when inserted into the scabbard. It features a 20 cm-long, nickel-plated, magnetic steel blade which retains factory-original sharpening to the tip and lower edge. A narrow fuller runs the majority of the length of the top edge of each side of the blade. Unmarked, the blade sits securely within a nickel-plated alloy hilt with a hooked quillon and pommel, with an intact blackened leather buffer pad covering the seam. Two pieces of polished off-white staghorn compose handle grip, and are fastened in place with dual metal rivets. Inset into the obverse of the handle is an enameled HJ insignia measuring 15 mm (w) x 25 mm (l), with a hand-carved ribbed border set directly into the grip. Accompanying the bayonet is its original scabbard, constructed of a black painted magnetic metal shaft. A downward-pointing hook emanates from the side of the shaft for the accommodation of a frog. Issues consistent with age and wear are evident, and include minor running marks to the blade, some loss of scabbard paint, and the loss of functionality to the scabbard’s throat catch. This unusual example, modified by a dedicated HJ member to demonstrate pride of service, remains in a near extremely fine condition.