BRITISH 1940's ENFIELD NO. 9 MK. 1 BAYONET

This is an Original Enfield No 9 MK I bayonet. Has the following markings.  An E on side of the of the bayonet and a strange arrow along with an M 49 on the bottom area.  See images.

This bayonet was manufactured by Francis & Barnett Ltd.

Francis & Barnett manufactured motorcycles that were affectionately known as the "Fanny-B".

These bayonets were very rare, with only a handful of known examples.

NOTE : NO SCABBARD

The No.9 Mk. was the replacement for the No.4 spike bayonet.  The War Departments first attempt to replace the No.4 was with the innovative No.7 Mk. I/L bayonet.

As the decision was made not to issue the No.7 with the .303 caliber Lee-Enfield No.4 rifle, there still remained a strong desire to replace the No. 4 spike bayonet. Compared to the elaborate No. 7 Mk. I/L, the No. 9 Mk. I was a much simpler design with a sturdy socket pinned to the clip-point blade of the No.5 Mk. I bayonet. Because the No.9 Mk. I blade was closely patterned on the No.5 Mk. I bayonet, the No.5 scabbard was retained for use with the No.9 Mk. I bayonet.

Production commenced in 1947, even before the No. 9 Mk. I was officially approved.