Merrill Rifle Saber Bayonet

Merrill Rifle Saber Bayonet - Inventory Number: BAY 281

This non-excavated saber bayonet for a Merrill Rifle is in very good condition. It has a cast brass bird’s head hilt, a 25 1/8 inch blade and an overall measurement of approximately 30-1/8 inches. Its uncleaned blade, with its silver-grey patina, has a spear point and shallow, un-stopped, fuller. The reverse ricasso is dated "1861". The brass hilt has a forward curving lower guard with disc-shaped final. The upper guard has a .890 bore. The grip has a square-ended stud groove. The back strap is hand-stamped with the serial number "5227".  The Ordnance Department purchased 770 Merrill breech-loading rifles with saber bayonets between 1862 and 1865. This rare bayonet is illustrated and described on page 123 of "THE AMERICAN BAYONET 1776-1964" by A.N. Harden. The description notes that this bayonet also fits the Model 1841 Mississippi Rifles modified to accept a saber bayonet. This bayonet will be an excellent addition to any Civil War bayonet, weapon, or general relic collection.

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Inventory Number: BAY 281