British Enfield Yataghan P1856/58 Sword Bayonet and Leather Scabbard. ED 2341. Bayonets

The P1856 Enfield short rifle and sword bayonet were approved on the 24th January 1856 and according to the pattern book at Enfield was intended for issue to the Rifle Brigade and Sergeants of Infantry, though later other units used these weapons. See page 304 & 368 of Watts & White for reference. From 1858 the use of more machinery enabled closer tolerances to make bayonets and in doing so made the bayonets interchangeable, instead of bayonets being individually fitted to a particular rifle. This bayonet has a slightly longer leaf spring for the locking bolt and was secured by a screw and not as previously with a rivet on the P 1856 bayonet. Blade length: 22 ¾ “, overall: 28”. The blade bears the War Department mark and the crossguard has ‘2398’ stamped to it. The grips are made of chequered black leather held by steel pins. The scabbard is made of black leather with steel top mount and chape, all stitching is intact *pitting to the frog stud*. The price includes UK delivery. ED 2341.