A seldom encountered Unmodified Canadian MK 11 Ross Bayonet Dated 1913.
Canadian Ross Bayonets come in two very similar looking forms: the Mk I used on the Ross Model 1905 rifle, which the Canadians did not take overseas during WW1, and the MK II Ross Bayonet used on the Ross Model 1910 rifle which the Canadians did take to the Western Front.
At the outset the only visible difference between the two types of Bayonet was the cross guard where the MK1 had an extended muzzle ring and more pronounced quillon; at factory configuration both bayonets had exactly the same blade with a curved knife like point. In October 1915 however, the blades on the Mk II's were grounded to a spear like point to increase their penetration ability; only very few Mk II bayonets escaped this modification. This is one of those rare Unmodified MK II Bayonets.
The Bayonet is profusely marked. On one side the pommel has: "Ross Rifle Co., Quebec. Patented 1907.”, with then on the other side: the large letter "C” and broad arrow of Canada, the “11" pattern designation (Mk II), and “5/13” for May 1913. There are then multiple inspection stamps in various locations.
The handle has in addition a regimental acceptance stamp, plus bears a lovely “7K 105" issue mark for the 7th Company of the 105th Overseas Battalion (Prince Edward Island Highlanders). Upon arriving in England in 1916 the 105th Overseas Battalion provided reinforcement drafts for the 13th (Royal Highlanders of Canada) Battalion in France, this one of the Canadian regiments known to have used the Ross rifle on the Western Front. It is noteworthy that the MK II Ross Bayonet retained in the Imperial War Museum collection is of the Unmodified type as here.
The Bayonet is complete and in very good service used condition overall. The locking mechanism at the pommel working perfectly and the unmodified blade having just light speckling. The stitching to the scabbard and integral frog is undamaged and strong, the leatherwork bearing minimal scuffing.
A rare WW1 Bayonet available to UK BUYERS ONLY of 18 years of age or above.
