German-modified Belgian Model 1916/24 bayonet
This is one of the Belgian Model 1916/24 bayonets that were captured in 1940 and pressed into German use. Like many other captured examples, this one was shortened to a more usable and relatively standard length. The Belgians shortened some of their own bayonets in the 1930’s, but this one appears to be shorter than those examples, and has had the tip formed into a more rounded shape. This is in contrast to the very tapered and pointy tips seen on either original or domestically shortened bayonets. The scabbard also appears to have been shortened and the end worked to taper it to accommodate the blade reduction of the bayonet. The blade length is approx. 282mm, which is almost identical to the mandated length for German modified Dutch carbine bayonets [SG 104(h)].
From what I’ve been able to gather, German numbers were applied to modified Belgian bayonets and scabbards. This one has matching numbers on the ricasso and the grip near the pommel, albeit very faintly in the latter location. One to three digit numbers were applied to the frog studs, but this one is off by one number. An armorer’s mix-up, perhaps? Other stamps and characters appear to be original Belgian.
The muzzle ring of the Belgian bayonets was a logistical problem as the two types used had two different exterior muzzle diameters. This was overcome on this example by removing the majority of the ring to accommodate any barrel profile of Belgian rifles then in use. I mounted this on my Belgian Model 1935 rifle and the fit is less than ideal. While the bayonet locks up well, most of the weight is out front and unsupported, so anything more functional than appearance at the end of the rifle would be a challenge.
Pat
