Bayonet for a circa 1760s British light dragoon carbine. For reference see "The Socket Bayonet in the British Army" page 98. This piece is 18 3/4″ overall, 14″ blade, 3.9″ socket with 1.82″ stud to muzzle measurement and inside diameter of 23.7mm or 7/8″. Blade is marked with "C" with the remnants of a crown over 5 (see fig. 133, page 100 of the above). The socket shows a split at the seam and a tear leading to the slot. The metal surfaces show stains, light scattered pitting and old patina. This piece shows an engraved no. "18" on the top of the socket. This piece shows slight variations of dimensions from the various bayonets shown on the pages 98 to 102 of the aforesaid reference. The crown 6 is correct for a BO weapon. The "C" is a smith's mark. The no. "18" is a serial number as commonly used on limited issue arms. A less than common British military bayonet.
