Czech VZ58 Type III

Czech VZ58 Bayonets

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Mr. B.
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Czech VZ58 Type III

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These are pictures of a late issue Czech VZ58 Type III bayonet and scabbard. It has the long cross guard and full length tang. M.
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Mr. B.
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Re: Czech VZ58 Type III

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The Type III is the final production variation. It is basically the same casting as the Type II, but the hilt tang has been lengthened to extend beyond the end of the grip panels. This design added strength and protection to the entire hilt and pommel. It also improve the heft and balance of the bayonet. The wood chip and plastic grip panels were redesigned and molded flat on the inside. They required precise rivet location to hold the panels in place. Rivet locating holes were placed in the hilt tang and the rivet location was the same as on the Type II and the modified Type I bayonet. By standardizing the rivets and positions on the hilt, they maintained the strongest installation and could use the same inletting and rivet setting equipment with out making changes. Whether replacing grip panel during repairs, rework or new production.

The Type III was intended to replace all the Type I and II bayonets still in use. As Type III production permitted, Type I and II bayonets were removed from service. They were then inspected, repaired and reworked to meet minimum functional standards. Adherence to factory and military specifications and appearance standards were not a priority. They were then placed in storage as reserve until final release for sale or salvage.

Below are pictures of the cast Type III hilt and grip panels, used and new from an armorers field kit. Mike
VZ58 Type III 5.jpg
VZ58 Type III 4 (2).jpg
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Mr. B.
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Re: Czech VZ58 Type III

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As a side note, the final Armorers Field kit produced after the start of the Type III bayonet production contained pairs of both the Type II and Type III grip panels. These panels allow the replacement of grips on all three Types of bayonets. The kit also contained new unissued Type III bayonets for replacement of lost or unrepairable bayonet of all three Types. Mike
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Mr. B.
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Re: Czech VZ58 Type III

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How about another Czech VZ58 bayonet variation to learn about? In 1967, during the production of the Type III bayonets a change was suggested to save time and money during production. This was done by eliminating the four metal washers securing the grip panel rivets. A temporary change was made during production as an experiment / trial and a limited number were produced. Evidentily the test failed and the change was not adopted. The Type III remained the same untill the end of production. Just another minor variaton for collectors.
One of the pictures below is from a reference book. The other one is a picture from a private collection. Note the serial numbers are relatively close together.
Mike
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Czech VZ58 Type III Gerhard 1 (2).JPG
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