The UFH hoe, that RtrL brought to our attention with that great Link to the UFH ad, was most likely made post June 1945, after bayonet production had ceased at UFH. During the production years bayonet quality steel was at a premium, and the scrap was reused in new production. UFH continued to cut down M1905 16" to M1 size until December 1945. You will note they even had a shear made that cut the end off in a wedge shape, saving grinding time. Here is an old photo I made of some OL bayonets and forgings, and cut-off tip. Bayonets are OL M1905, 1942, Cut-down to M1 size, OL 1943, and OL M1 dated 1943, Dated OL M1 bayonets are scarce.
Reply With Quote