A coworker found an old sword bayonet at his father's shop last night and brought in to work today. It appears to be a second-pattern (1801) Baker rifle bayo with the brass handle and D shaped hand guard. It is in remakable shape with the only major fault being that the release button is severely corroded & siezed. We're trying to determine if it's original or a repro. I'm certainly no expert, but IMHO the patina would indicate considerable age. There is a proof mark on the side of the blade which is a crown with the number 19 directly below it. On the back of the blade close to the hilt are the letters "DLEY". Presumably there was something preceding those letters. However they themselves are so distinct the only thing that I can think of was that maybe constant contact with a scabbard completely wore off whatever else was there. Any thoughts on these markings and how they could relate to it's authenticity (or lack thereof) would be appreciated.
Baker Rifle Sword Bayonet
- Thread starter 2strklvr
- Start date
- Location
- West coast of Vancouver Island
Any chance of getting some good photos?
I'll try and get him to take a few.
