This is a FINE condition example of what is technically the US Model 1827 Socket Bayonet. The M1827 socket bayonet was an improved version of the earlier Model 1822, which was the improved Model 1816 socket bayonet. While all three of these bayonets look very similar and often not distinguishable without the use of calipers, to the US Ordnance Department they were all separate patterns. The M1822 was an attempt to make the M1816 bayonet more standardized in terms of dimensions and in its ability to interchange on M1816/22 muskets. The M1827 is identifiable by the increased diameter of the neck (or shank) of the bayonet, which was done in an effort to increase the strength of the blade to socket junction. Those bayonets that match the M1822 pattern, with a neck diameter of more than .450” are officially M-1827 bayonets. This bayonet has a minimum an oval neck diameter of .47” side to side and nominally .6” front to rear, which places it squarely in the M1827 production series. 

This bayonet was produced at the Harpers Ferry Arsenal between the years of 1827-1831. The years from 1821-1831 were the National Armory Brown period, during which time both muskets and bayonets were finished with a rich lacquer brown color instead of with polished “National Armory Bright” metal. This very nice example of a bayonet from the National Armory Brown period retains well over 85%+ of the original lacquer brown finish, which has faded, dulled and worn, somewhat. The areas where the finish was worn or faded have developed an oxidized brown patina, with the socket showing the most wear and loss and the blade retaining nearly all of the finish with some thinning and wear.

 The bayonet is full length with a 16” blade, 3” socket and an overall length of 19 1/8”. The bayonet has the traditional prow point and an 8 ¾” face flute. The muzzle diameter of the socket is .825” and the muzzle to stud length is 1.18”. The bayonet has a crisp, undamaged socket that remains round. The face of the blade is clearly marked US/TA. The TA mark is that of Harpers Ferry bayonet forger Timothy Allen. The blade is mostly smooth, except for some very lightly scattered peppering and pinpricking, along with some speckled areas of minor surface oxidation. The socket shows some scattered areas of minor oxidized freckling as well and as noted shows some moderate amounts of finish loss.

Overall, this is an extremely fine example of a later production National Arsenal Brown era M1827 (M1816 Type III) socket bayonet that retains most its original finish. These bayonets are rather scarce, especially with this much of their original lacquer brown finish. This bayonet would be a great addition to you National Armory Brown US M1822 (M1816 Type II) or M1828 (M1816 Type III) musket, especially a Harpers Ferry produced example.

SOLD