Bayonet and scabbard

[Khaki]

I recently purchased a chassepot bayonet & scabbard with German regimental markings, refer previous post 'bayonet markings' one thing however is that in sheathing the bayonet in its scabbard the last two inches are very tight and only can be closed and removed with some force being applied. I checked with a wire and there is no blockage and there are also no dents to the scabbard. No doubt this is not the original partnership, is this a common problem for a metal scabbard what is the solution? (I tried oil)

thanks

khaki

[shippingsteel]

Plenty of tight scabbards are encountered, especially considering the age of these things - and the mismatching between various makers does not help.

There are always slight variations in manufacture between different makers, but while matched with their correct scabbards there is never any problem.

All you can do is look closely along the length of the blade to see where the noticeable rubbing or abrasion is which indicates the site of the contact.

And when you find the spot where it jams tightly against the scabbard, then you need to keep that point well lubricated. Heavy grease would be best.

Cheers, S>S

[Khaki]

Thanks S>S,

I will have a look at it this weekend, and will try the heavy grease.

regards

khaki