UBB.threads Forums Edged Weapons The BCN Bayonet Forum GERMAN BAYONET-NO MARKINGS???

I BOUGHT A SMALL GROUP OF STUFF TODAY, THIS BAYONET WAS PART OF THE GROUP. THS SCABBARD IS MARKED BUT THE BLADE HAS NO MARKS, THERE ARE NO WAFFEN STAMPS ON THE POMMELL.NOT UP ON BAYONETS BUT I NEVER SAW THIS. WHAT IS THIS?? THANKS PAUL

The S84/98 T-3 you have is what many collector's refer to as a "blanko". These are bayonets which bear no external manufacturer or military acceptance markings. Such bayonets are usually considered "commercial" production, to differentiate them from those made under contract to the German military. Internal para-military organizations such as the police, etc. often contracted for their own bayonets, and thus would not be subject to military acceptance. It is not unusual to find a "commercial" bayonet with only a serial number stamped on the cross guard or ricasso, which was likely applied upon issuance. Your bayonet was made around 1943, and probably by EuF Horster (code "asw"). The proper scabbard would have a dull, "matte-blue" finish, and also be devoid of any markings, as the one you pictured is from another manufacturer.

thanks for the info fred. paul

Hi FredM,

How do you determine Horster production?

The date I assume from the finish?

Thanks, Lance

Lance:
On these particular "blankos", the two variants most likely encountered will be of EuF Horster (asw) or Carl Eickhorn (cof) manufacture. Their identity has been established by a comparison of machining, finish, & other characteristics exhibited by the "blanko" pieces and their military contract counterparts. In the case of Eickhorn, the proof is definitive.
Horster pieces will have red (to reddish-orange) phenolic composite grips. There is a moderately brushed finish to the metal, and a salt-blued finish. Scabbards will have a matte-blued, dull finish. You might also find a eagle/519 WaA acceptance marking just at the end and/or under the rear edge of the flashguard, on the tang.

Eickhorn examples will have light colored wooden grips. Finish will be a very dull, matte-blue, to bayonet & scabbard. In some instances it almost can be mistaken for phosphate. If one looks closely @ the ricasso, evidence of removed markings may be present. I have seen two where the "cof" code was still legible under the finish.

There are a couple of other late "blankos" as well. I have one which, by physical characteristics, finish, etc. I believe is of E. Pack (cul) production.

Here is an example of the late war Eickhorn blanko.