New arisaka bayonet

**paladin1919** · 05-03-2011, 02:35 AM

Just picked this one up tonight and am curious if anyone knows the significance of the tag present on the muzzle ring. The tag appears to be wood or hardened leather and is tied to the muzzle ring with what looks like nylon string. It has two presumably Japanese characters on both sides which I think can be made out in the pics.

Purchased from an estate for $70 which I think was a fair price. How'd I do?

Has some surface rust on the pommel and fasteners/screws but the blade is very nice.

Thanks in advance for any help. I am a novice at bayonet collecting but am learning fast. And this forum has been very helpful thus far.

**Blitzkrieg Bop** · 05-03-2011, 02:51 AM

For $70.00, you did well. I have seen these go for $150.00, but in mint without the frog.

**SteveR** · 05-03-2011, 02:59 AM

I believe the tag is a Japanese dog tag.
One can only guess as to how or why it was attached to the bayonet.
SteveR

**paladin1919** · 05-03-2011, 03:11 AM

That would be really cool if it were a dog tag but I think those were brass/metal... At least all the ones I have seen online are.

**SteveR** · 05-03-2011, 03:21 AM

by paladin1919

That would be really cool if it were a dog tag but I think those were brass/metal... At least all the ones I have seen online are.

They came on wood, brass, copper, etc.
SteveR

**paladin1919** · 05-03-2011, 03:44 AM

I see ... Yeah just found an example of wood tags on the web. Wouldn't think that wood would be the best option. Did they use the metal with the wood because the example online has wood tied to metal tags with what appears to be the same type of cord that is tied to the bayonet?

Would that add value to the bayonet?

Thanks for the info!

**Walkwolf** · 05-03-2011, 03:59 AM

Very nice, Paladin1919. $70 is a very good price for this bayonet................!

I would also leave the dog tag attached - it is something you don't see
every day - and it may have been put there by a Vet. IMO, It does
add interest and value to the set !

A wipe with light oil will remove a lot of the surface rust. I always try
and remember to do this every time I hande a knife or bayonet.
I don't mean gobs, but just enough to coat the surface,
remove finger prints, and prevent further build up.