Germany, Heer. A Dress Bayonet, by Robert Klaas

(Heer Bajonett). A very well-preserved Heer dress bayonet, measuring 405 mm in total length when inserted into the scabbard. It features a 250 mm-long polished magnetic metal blade with a sharpened tip and unspoiled edges, and with fullers running down the length of each side. It presents plain with the exception of a maker’s mark near the reverse ricasso of “ROBERT KLAAS, SOLINGEN”, circumscribing the firm’s stork logo. The blade sits securely within a one-piece nickel-plated zink alloy hilt with a hooked quillon and insertion slot retaining a green wool insert and functional spring catch with push-button release. An intact blackened leather buffer pad covers the seam where the blade meets the hilt. Two pieces of pebbled black bakelite comprise the handle grips, and are secured together with dual non-ferrous metal rivets. Affixed to the obverse handle is a silvered insignia in the form of a raised Heer-style German national eagle clutching a mobile swastika, measuring 16 mm (w) x 20 mm (h). It is accompanied by its period original scabbard, constructed of a black-painted magnetic metal shaft. A downward-pointing hook emanates from the side of the shaft for attachment to a frog. The throat retains a functional spring catch, securely holding the bayonet in place during storage, and is held together by a single side rivet. Minor issues consistent with age and use are evident, and include some running marks to the blade and loss of paint to the scabbard, as well as friction rendering insertion and extraction of the bayonet from the scabbard difficult. It is in an overall better than very fine condition.