Boer War Period British 1888 Mk. III Wilkinson Sword Bayonet Shortened to a Close Combat Trench Knife - 1899

Here on offer is an interesting Wilkinson Boer War Period British 1888 Mk. III Wilkinson Sword bayonet that has been shortened to make a close combat or trench knife, dated 1899.

This originally started life as a Wilkinson Sword British Pattern 1888 Mk. III Bayonet and I believe these bayonets were originally made for the Magazine Lee Metford and Magazine Lee Enfield rifles.

They were used during the Boer Wars and the Boxer Rebellion and were definitely in regular use during the early stages of WW1.

At some point the blade on this bayonet has been shortened to 7.9” (20cm), making it a more practical combat weapon.
The blade now has a greying and pitting to the finish, but you can still just make out the markings on both ricasso. On one side is the Royal cypher of Queen Victoria (Crown VR), above the date of issue, “4 99”, being April 1899 and the maker’s name: WILKINSON LONDON.

On the other side is the Enfield inspection mark, British War Department broad arrow and the bend test “X” mark.

There are also a couple of inspection marks on the blade spine, but they are hard to make out.

The pommel has had the top offset section with the release button cut off and the muzzle ring has been cut in half, but the short quillion remains as it was.

The wooden grip slabs are secured with screw bolts, making this a Mk. III version. Three ring grooves have also been cut into the wood and spine; I assume to provide a better grip.

There was no scabbard with this example.

The blade measures 7.9” (20cm) long and the knife is now 11.4” (29cm) in total length.

It weighs 300g.

Please see my pictures for the details of the condition, which complement this description.

Please see my TERMS OF BUSINESS regarding Deliver Charges and Insurance regarding additional insurance cover, should you require it, BEFORE the item is dispatched.

Code: 51158