Paint on K98 bayonet and scabbard

[Klaus Fisher]

So I recently picked up a k98 bayonet and scabbard. However, it has a light greenish type paint on it. I was curious if it ever was period for troops to paint their bayonets a matte green like their helmets? Added a picture.

[Aus der Traum]

Hi Klaus,

It was not a typical practice for German servicemen to paint their bayonets. German infantry were actually taught to keep their bayonets clean, much like they kept their rifles clean (wether this was adhered to is not clear).

So to sum up, generally speaking, a German combat bayonet should only have its standard, blued finish.

I think you should post images of the bayonet, so that we can decide wether the paint is 'of the period'

All the best,

Joshua

[GIZMO8Z]

From the dark pictures, it almost looks like a DAK desert paint scheme

[Klaus Fisher]

It does look a lot like DAK light green but once again no idea if it is period or not.

[AndyB]

The paint looks like it could be DAK but the bayonet was sharpened postwar and the locking nut with press button is missing.