Canadian Ross Mk1/Pattern 1908 US Marked Bayonet

Manufactured in Canada by the Ross rifle Co. for the Ross rifles issued to the military. These rifles, found to be less than adequate in the trenches of WWI, were pulled from Canadian service around the same time that the U.S. entered the war. Lacking enough arms for the expeditionary forces, let alone troop training, the U.S. obtained about 20,000 rifles and bayonets through the Canadian government and issued them to home guard and training units. These rifles and bayonets are now relatively rare since many were returned or sold after the war.

The example shown here is in very good condition with the blade retaining the some of the original bright finish and faint factory toolmarks. The blade has dulled over time and is speckled with blemished from rust. The blued finish is worn on the ricasso, guard, and pommel. The muzzle ring is the early, extended style with internal flat spring. Pommel catch/release button works as intended. Wooden grips show some service handling marks and one side is stamped ‘U.S.’ below the flaming ordinance bomb. Nearby there is a faint, nonreadable mark – possible ’48’ stamping. On the other side, the grip is marked with a faint factory inspection mark (crown/8). Pommel markings include ‘Ross Rifle Co. Quebec Patented 1907’ in three lines on the same side as the U.S. markings. The other side shows the Canadian broad arrow near the number 08 with the manufacture date ‘9-09’ below. Also present is the factory inspector’s crown/8 mark. Two inspector’s marks (crown/8) are seen on the tang, under the muzzle ring. The pommel end is Canadian marked ‘V A.B/2.COC./441’. The blade and guard are unmarked, the former not sharpened after issue. The leather scabbard is in fair condition with no rot or loss of flexibility. The belt loop is broken off and surface rust with minor pitting is present on top of the throat. A hole is also present in the scabbard front face. Scabbard marks include the “U.S.”/flaming bomb on the leather throat cover, Canadian markings ‘5’(?) ‘. C . E . 33’ on the rear side of the leather throat cover, and a faint broad arrow with faint ‘1909’ date on the back scabbard face. See pictures for overall condition. Must be 18 years of age to purchase.