Re: Russian AKM 6X3 Type I bayonets and scabbards
Posted: Sun Feb 16, 2020 1:31 am
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
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