A rare Australian 'Slaz 43' bolo bayonet, and an American model 1917 bolo knife
The first stamped 'SLAZ 43', no. 3582, the second no. 37830, dated 1917
The first retaining most of its original finish, in its canvas scabbard with copper throat mount; the second of characteristic form (one grip with old wear), in its canvas-covered leather scabbard (minor damage); together with an American M1 Garand bayonet (surface rust and some pitting, scabbard missing), and an Italian 'sciabola-baionetta' M91, no. QD2231, in its steel scabbard (4)
Footnotes:
Examples of the first are recorded with serial numbers up to 5000, however less than 2000 are believed to have been produced. Manufactured by Slazenger Sports Equipment, the 'Slaz 43' was trialled for the Australian military as a paratrooper's sidearm for jungle warfare. It was ultimately rejected due to its weight and unwieldiness, and surviving examples are rare