WW2 AUSTRALIAN ISSUED 303 BAYONET ORANGE ARSENAL
HISTORY
Australian made 303 bayonets were produced at the Australian Small Arms Factory, Lithgow. Bayonet production at Lithgow began in 1913. The hooked lower quillon was deleted in 1915. Production ceased in 1927 and was resumed in late 1940. Bayonet production was moved from Lithgow to Small Arms Factory No. 3 at Orange in July 1942, where most of Australia’s Second World War bayonets were produced. Markings also changed with the move to Orange with bayonets stamped "OA" for Orange Arsenal and "MA" for Munitions Australia.
ITEM DESCRIPTION
This example was produced at the Orange Arsenal in October 1943. with the blade both stamped "OA" and "MA"and the dtae of issue 10 43. The scabbard also has the Lithgow star stamp to the chape. The blade retains much of the original bluing and only has the factory sharpening on the edge with no chips. there are a couple of small chips to one side of the wood on the handle however this does not detract from its appearance and is commensurate with its age.
This bayonet is a good example of a WW2 Australian made Lithgow produced bayonet at the Orange Arsenal.