Imperial German M1898/05 “Butcher Blade” Bayonet with Scabbard

This is a well-preserved example of the iconic M1898/05 Seitengewehr, commonly referred to by collectors as the “Butcher Blade” bayonet. Designed for use with the German Mauser Gewehr 98 rifle, this model was standard issue to Imperial German infantry during World War I. It remains one of the most recognized and collectible bayonets of the Great War era due to its large size, rugged construction, and distinctive design.

Physical Characteristics:

• Overall Length: 17 inches

• Blade Type: Single-edged, fullered “butcher” blade

• Blade Finish: Original steel finish showing only minor wear and age patina; no major pitting or sharpening marks.

• Crossguard & Muzzle Ring: Steel guard with forward-swept quillon and muzzle ring; number “1490” is stamped into the guard.

• Grip Plates: Dark hardwood grips with diagonal grooves; secured by two rivets; shows uniform wear but remains solid with no cracks.

• Pommel: Standard steel bird-head pommel with push-button release in working order.

Scabbard:

• Material: Steel, complete with integral frog stud

• Finish: Honest age patina and scattered surface oxidation but no dents or splits.

• Serial Number: Clearly stamped “1078” on the frog stud — indicating it is a mismatched set.

Notable Details:

• This bayonet bears two mismatched serial numbers: “1490” on the crossguard and “1078” on the scabbard frog stud, which is a common occurrence due to field reassignments, postwar re-pairing, or arsenal refurbishments.

• Both numbers are cleanly struck and legible, adding to its documented authenticity.

• Bayonet and scabbard fit securely together.

Condition:

This example is in very good condition for its age, with a smooth patina across the steel components and no structural flaws. The blade remains full length, unmarred, and straight. The locking mechanism functions properly. While the numbers do not match, the bayonet and scabbard pair well visually and are an authentic representation of field equipment issued during the First World War.

Historical Context:

The M1898/05 bayonet was introduced in response to the practical needs of trench warfare, replacing the earlier "long" M1898 which proved unwieldy. Its shorter, more robust design became the hallmark of the German infantryman's kit from 1905 through the end of the war. It earned its “butcher blade” nickname from Allied troops, who likened its wide profile to a meat cleaver.