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How to Decode Inspection Stamps on a Bayonet

Collecting historical weapons is an interesting way to see how warfare has developed over the years, and can be a lucrative hobby. However, you need to be able to accurately identify markings on your bayonets to distinguish the country of origin, manufacture date and other important information. A bayonet's inspection stamp, which most military-issued bayonets will include, reveals very important information on both the age and place of manufacture of your bayonet. Decoding your bayonet's inspection stamp is an important ability for the serious collector to have.

Things You'll Need

Rubber gloves (if necessary)
Magnifying glass (if necessary)
Bayonet reference material

Instructions

- 1
  Remove the bayonet attachment from any rifle to which it had been secured. Wear rubber gloves if you're concerned about affecting the bayonet's condition through handling.
- 2
  Lay your bayonet on a table and find the part of the blade called the ricasso. The ricasso is the bottom part of the blade, nearest the hilt. Often, the ricasso is flat and has not been shaped like the rest of the metal blade.
- 3
  Inspect the ricasso for any markings. Use a magnifying glass if you're having trouble discerning them. Normal markings on the ricasso include the bayonet maker's name, the manufacturing date, the date of issue and inspection stamps. Inspection stamps indicate the bayonet's country of origin.
- 4
  Consult reference material on bayonet identification. Inspection stamp styles have changed over the years and records are sparse. Research materials and member forums can be accessed by contacting the Society of American Bayonet Collectors (bayonetcollectors.org) or the Bayonet Collectors Network. Popular books on the subject include "Collecting Bayonets" by J. A. Maddox and "Bayonets From Janzen's Notebook" by Jerry L. Janzen. Research all available reference materials until you have identified your bayonet's country of origin.

Gun Collecting