Russian AKM 6X3 Type I bayonets and scabbards

[Mr. B.]

We have all seen the results of large quantities of 6X3 Type I bayonets and scabbards after being reworked. They were torn down to individual components, inspected, parts repaired or replaced, old numbers removed by grinding off, crossing off, or painted over. Then reassembled using random parts either reconditioned or new. After being reconditioned to meet minimum functional standards they were re-numbered with hand etched matching numbers, (forced match). There is no consistency in the location of these new numbers they can be found on the either side of the crossguard, grip panels, scabbard body, and cutter plate. I have seen 3, 4, 5, and 6 digit numbers. The original numbers were usually issue numbers matching the bayonet and scabbard to a rifle. It is unknown if these rework numbers were matching with a rifle for storage of if they were just a form of inventory numbering.

Once in a while one of these bayonets and scabbards can be found where a repair or replacement was made at the unit or field level armory. The 1st one below has the original die stamped number on the scabbard. Evidently the bayonet has been lost or damaged beyond repair. Either a new unissued unnumbered bayonet or a reconditioned one as been issued after having a matching hand etched number added. The 2nd one is a bayonet with the original die stamped number on the crossguard. For some reason a new un-numbered replacement scabbard has been issued with a matched hand etched number. Neither of these bayonets and scabbards bear any evidence of being involved in the massed teardown rework operations. Perhaps they passed an initial inspection before being reworked? Mike

[Dragur2791]

Here are 4 NOS almost identical Izhvesk 6x3 bayonets.
Supposedly these are of earlier production hence the glued on insulator piece. There is no stopper on the scabbard. The cosmoline is still present in sight and smell.

[Dragur2791]

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[Dragur2791]

Additional details

[Mr. B.]

Wow! Where are you coming up with all these NOS Russian bayonet and scabbard variations lately? All of these appear to be early AKM 6X3 Type I bayonets and scabbards. I also noted the different variations of hand straps. Two are very early all leather ones. One is a little later version with two buckles. The third one is ...... well, different!? Reptile pattern embossed leather with a domed rivet and one buckle. Somehow this doesn't look right to me. especially on an early bayonet.
I would also be interested in seeing the hanger brackets on the scabbards. Flat bars, notched flat bars, or the wire loop style? Also any markings inside the hanger bulge on the rubber insulators? Just curious.
Mike

[mill_speer]

Mike you were a little faster.
Beautiful 6X3 bayonets.
Markings with pencil too! Photos of the hook eyes of the sheaths, but do not fold over the elastic.
G.

[Brian]

Bringing back an old topic.
This week I picked up a mismatched Type II Izhevsk bayo in poor condition with a Type 1 Tula scabbard.
No doubt swapped at some stage. But bought it for the scabbard, as I didn't have an example of the notched bar and mold number on the rubber.
Just posting here for interest. I assume this is one of the early scabbards. Posted here for future reference. Wonder how common these are?