Bayonet Martini EnfieldTriangular 1895
| Date of Approval | 1st February 1896 |
| Weight | 1.1lb (475 grammes) |
During June 1894, the ongoing trials of the new Martini Enfield .303” rifle opened up the question of which bayonet to consider for the arm. Two Converted MkII Martini Henry Rifles were subjected to tests, one furnished to accept the Pattern 1888 Lee Metford sword bayonet, and another with a bushed and converted Common Long bayonet. Cost estimates had been returned showing the cost to convert 50,000 triangular bayonets was only 2s each, which involved the cutting down and bushing of the socket, an extension of the foresight bridge and a new locking ring being installed. When fitted the bayonet now hung under the barrel giving better balance to the shorter .303 barrel. Secretary of State Campbell Bannerman approved the bayonets adoption on the 16th May 1895 and the bayonet was officially introduced in LOC §8119 1stFebruary 1896, as Bayonet Martini Enfield Triangular , with locking ring and screw, Overall appearance is of a Common Long Socket Bayonet, however muzzle ring diamteter is .640" compared to the .700" for a .45 Martini arm. Overall blade length is 21.75" (552mm) The blades are often dated '99 or '00, showing the date of conversion.
