question for 98k baionette specialist

[Jean-Loup]

Hi
I bought a 98k baionette in a flee market, that is suposedly fresh from "the woodwork". The blade and sheath have unmatching numbers, wich is possible of course. The strange thing is that the baionette itself has more rust on it than the sheath. So my question is: is the salesman a liar, or do the baionets always rust more easely than the sheath for some reason (different metal...). I know its no big deal, but I would like to know.

Thanks JL

[J Temple-West]

Hi Jean-Loup, If the bayonet had, had matching numbers I would have found It strange, but It sounds like the bayo and sheath were married recently making a completed set.. Blades, like anything metal, will rust if left in the sheath in damp conditions, the sheath, however, has the added advantage of being painted which slows the rusting process... BTW... Listen, with Interest, to what the seller has to say, sometimes the stories can be quite entertaining ...

[Jean-Loup]

I might have been imprecise. The blade is brand new(meaning it has been in a sheath all this time), its the handle of the baio that has quite a bit of surface rust, more than on the sheath. I am quite paranoide, and only want 100%100% stuff. The guy I bought it from owns a junk store, and is not at all specialised in militaria, and I dont think he would have messed around with another sheath and stuff. The story was simple:"was the only piece of militaria I found in a house I cleaned out."
So is there anyone out there with a matching number baionette, where the shieth resisted to rust better than the handle??? (yes, I realise I am making a big fuss about one of the most common pieces of militaria, but hey!)

[Skipper Greenwade]

It could be that the paint or anodizing (bluing) on the scabbard just kept it from rusting as badly as the hilt. Since the numbers do not match, I certainly wouldn't rule out someone (including, possibly the dealer) pairing up the bayonet and scabbard.

Best,
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