U.S. M8AI PWH Vietnam War Bayonet & Scabbard
2023.59.2
Scabbard and bayonet
Name/Title
U.S. M8AI PWH Vietnam War Bayonet & ScabbardEntry/Object ID
2023.59.2Description
The 170mm blackened blade has a flat spine leading to a sharp upper edge giving it a flattened diamond cross section for the forward half of its length. The blade has a full-length single edge and is double-edged for the last 90mm. The blade is in good condition, however, there is paint wear and it has been blunted for safety. The handle has two piece black plastic checkered grips which are secured to the tang by two screws. The flat pommel has a squared mortise slot with a locking device in the form of two independent spring loaded catches, operated by two grooved extensions at the lower back edge. The cross guard has a muzzle ring diameter of 22 mm. The blade has a half back edge with a spear point. All metal parts are parkerized black. The moulded olive green plastic fibre scabbard has an integral webbing frog riveted to an extension bar of the mouthpiece with a belt loop, press stud grip securing strap and a wire hook for attachment to the load carrying equipment. The throat is stamped USM8A1 over PWH and the tip has a reinforced hole with a nylon securing thong. The bayonet is complete with its M8A1 scabbard with steel throat and integral webbing belt loop. The throat of the scabbard is stamped with, USM8A1 over PWH, showing that the scabbard was made at the Pennsylvania Working Home for the Blind. The PWH produced M8A1 scabbards from 1965 until 1969. Their last contract being in January 1969.Use
The M7 bayonet was introduced in 1964 and designed for use with the American M16 assault rifle and M4 carbine. It has become famous as "the" Vietnam War bayonet.Category
Weapon, War Memorabilia, Personal Effects, Equipment