Austrian Ersatz Modified Kropatschek M.1878 Rifle Bayonet

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This is a bayonet for the Kropatschek Rifle used by the Austro-Hungarian empire during the end of the 19th century. It is marked clearly on the spine with Waffenfabrik Steyr 1881. Österreichische Waffenfabriksgesellschaft, (ŒWG, Austrian Arms-Manufacturing Company), also commonly referred to as Steyr Werke, is a legendary arms producer that still exists today. Steyr is an Austrian City just outside Vienna and at the time was the home of the entire Austrian arms production. The bayonet has a 20 1/2" T-Backed blade, with an overall length of 26”. The blade has some age and light sharpening and stain. Spine is engraved "Waffenfabrik Steyr 1881" Overall it is very much in the style of the French 1874 Gras bayonet, even down to the brass offset grip with wooden grip panels. The bayonet comes complete with its original steel scabbard. This example was later modified for WWI to become an "Ersatz" (replacement) or emergency issue bayonet for use with more modern rifles. Peek at the crossguard and you will see where the Armorer placed pins. The hilt was adjusted to fit WWI era rifles, and the muzzle ring was reduced in size for a proper fit. Rare find