Dixie RelicsDixie RelicsThis British-made accoutrement is an original angular socket bayonet made for the Model 1853 Enfield musket. The Enfield bayonet has the distinction of being the first universal issue bayonet to the British Army that employed a locking device. Blade was made of the best cast steel and had an iron socket welded to it.
The bayonet with its French-style locking ring has a triangular tapered blade with fullers on each face and was carried in a brass-mounted leather scabbard. Bayonet appears to have been cleaned at one time. Specimen is 20½” long overall with a 17 3/4” long blade and a 3” long socket. Blade has Birmingham proof markstamping on the throat near the socket. Blade bears a very nice smooth finish overall. The socket is numbered 33282. Production of the 1853 pattern socket bayonet continued throughout the life of the Enfield muzzleloader and the Snider Rifle and was finally terminated in 1875.
The black leather scabbard has a triangular body mounted with its original brass throat, clasp hook and tip. Leather body is in excellent strong condition with no flaking or crazing. Stitching tight and strong