Overview
This WWI Swiss M1914 Hans Steiner Pioneer Sawback Bayonet comes with a scabbard and is hallmarked "H.S.". The bayonet is a unique piece of militaria, perfect for collectors of WW I memorabilia. The conflict it represents is the First World War, specifically the year 1914. The country of manufacture is Switzerland, and the region of origin is the United States. The theme of the bayonet is militaria, specifically the WW I era. It is an original piece from that period and is categorized as a collectible in the Militaria category.
These Swiss M1914 sawback bayonets were used on 7.5mm Schmidt-Rubin M1911 Carbine and the M1931 (K31) Short Rifle. They were issued from 1916-1918. The stamped # on the crosspiece or guard was stamped (after it was issued) with soldier’s firearm #, and the bayonets were first equipped with leather sheaths. Then, from 1938, they had steel sheaths, and the defective leather sheaths were replaced. This one comes with the steel sheath and is stamped 65058 on the guard.
I read that “H.S.” is most rare manufacturer bc “there is no paperwork identifying H.S.” It is believed by most to be Hans Steiner, Wasen (im Emmental). According to SWISSWAFFEN.COM, who is only site to acknowledge maker as Hans Steimer with an m, there were only 3 manufacturers of this bayonet: Waffenfabrik Neuhausen, Elsener Schwyz, and Hans Steimer (Wasen). Also, according to SWISSWAFFEN.COM, Hans Steimer (Wasen) used various markings, most are below:
- H S (with Swiss “acceptance” symbol below) - This is the stamp this one has.
- H.St. (with Swiss symbol below)
- H.St with “S” reverse stamped (Swiss symbol to right and “1933” below)
W
- H S (Swiss symbol lower and offset to right, then “1934” below)
W
- H St (Swiss symbol above and “1930” below)
W
It has a satin finished blade with sawteeth on the spine and large fuller, .250" blade stock and 1.181" blade depth, full tang construction with steel fittings and wood scales.
The scabbard has scuffs/scratches, but is in overall excellent condition. The bayonet has some scratches on the blade, and some light patina on the handle fittings, but is in overall excellent condition for its age.