WW2 Australian Pattern 1907 SMLE bayonet in scabbard with frog by Lithgow with South African issue marks.
£225
A WW2 dated (1942) Australian Pattern 1907 SMLE bayonet in scabbard with frog manufactured at the Australian Ordnance Lithgow Factory with South African issue marks. Hilt with bolt retained wooden scales is struck to the left side of the Pommel with South African U Broad Arrow issue mark next to the release catch. Fullered single edged sword blade struck to the right side with an Ordnance Broad Arrow over MA for manufacture at Lithgow next to an X bending test mark and several Lithgow inspection stamps. The left side stamped MA 1907 over 2 ’42, for manufacture in February 1942 just before bayonet production was transferred to the nearby Orange Arsenal freeing up space at Lithgow for firearms production required to meet the war time needs of the Australian army. In its steel mounted regulation black leather Australian manufactured scabbard stamped to the rear MANGROVITE ’42 for manufacture in 1942. Manufactured to the standard British pattern for issue to the Australian army who used Lithgow manufactured SMLE rifles through both world wars the bayonets were made at Lithgow until early 1942 when the new, small, Orange Armoury was opened near to the main factory to manufacture bayonets and scabbards etc. required by the army. This being one of the very last made at Lithgow. The Australian Ordnance was also able to supply arms to the South African army units deployed in defence of the Empire during WW2 and this is one of those bayonets having Union of South Africa issue marks to the pommel. In good condition with clearly marked blade and clean grips in a nice regulation issue Australian scabbard with intact stitching with its correct South African issue pattern leather frog. A good and scarce WW2 Australian issue bayonet that saw service with South African troops through WW2 and after.
