WW2 Original Italian M91/38 Carcano Folding Bayonet with Scabbard
SKU: 431
Original/Reproduction: Original
Availability: In-stock
Manufacturer: Italian Small Arms Arsenal
Serial Number: 1373
Blade Style: Spear Point
Size / Dimensions
Overall length: 12
Blade length: 7 1/8"
Crossguard: 1 3/4"
Scabbard Length: 8"
Materials / Construction: Wood, Blued Steel
Condition: Excellent
PRICE: $400.00
Seller Type: WW2C
Seller ID: JMW
Seller Code: 100
Return Policy: 3-day inspection and return policy on used guns and accessories.
Description
This is an excellent condition example of the Italian M91/38 folding bayonet (Kiesling #13), designed for use with the Italian Mannlicher-Carcano M1891/38 and M1938 rifles and carbines. The bayonet measures 11 inches in overall length and features a 7 1/8-inch spear point blade.
A distinctive feature of this model is the round release button located on the reverse side of the hilt at the cross guard. This mechanism allows the blade to fold back into the hilt and recess into a channel in the rifle or carbine’s forend. This design enabled the bayonet to remain mounted while being conveniently stowed out of the way when not in use.
These bayonets were typically issued with steel scabbards, allowing them to be detached from the weapon and carried on the belt alongside other field equipment.
History
The WWII Italian M91/38 Carcano folding bayonet, was designed for use with the Carcano M1891/38 and M1938 series of rifles and carbines. Officially cataloged as Kiesling #13, this innovative bayonet features a unique folding mechanism that allowed Italian troops to keep the bayonet permanently affixed to the rifle while still being able to fold it back into a recessed groove in the rifle's forestock when not in use.
- Blade Length: Approximately 7 1/8 inches (18 cm)
- Overall Length (Extended): Approximately 11 inches (28 cm)
- Blade Type: Spear point, single edge with central fuller
- Mechanism: Folding blade with a round release button located on the reverse side of the crossguard
- Mounting: Muzzle ring removed from this design; affixes via a mounting slot and locking mechanism
- Handle: Ribbed steel grips, typically blued or parkerized
- Scabbard: Original steel scabbard, issued for carrying the bayonet separately on the belt or field gear when not fixed to the rifle
The folding bayonet design was part of Italy’s effort to simplify and modernize infantry equipment during the late interwar and wartime periods. Compact and practical, it reduced the length and weight burden of fixed blades while preserving close-combat capability. These bayonets were primarily issued to Italian troops during World War II and saw widespread use across various theaters of the conflict.
