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A number of years ago repro bayonets started to show up in the market, I guess to either satisfy the needs of the reenactors, or just from pure greed on the part of the sellers. Were those bayonets imitating a particular maker (PAL, UC, AFH, UFH) or were they a mixed group? Are there distinguishing features that make them readily identifiable from the real ones?
Sgt Rock-I have seen a bunch at gun shows. PAL, OL, and WT. All variations 16" M1, spear and Bowie points. Also repro scabbards, M3 and M7. Caveat emptor! Stay on you toes. SKIP
Have a look at US Military Knives Bayonets Machetes ther eis a lot of info on these reproductions, most are very obvious if you even a basic knowledge of the type
I have noticed that the repo bayonets lettering or fonts are smaller and very close together. Also the cross cannons looks like a child drew them.
Denix in Spain make a lot of the reproductions. Especially the long version of the Garand bayonet. Apart from the stampings mentioned above. The metal is not correct and they are not heavy enough. Buy a short Garand bayonet for approx £65 UK retail. Then you can always get your money back.
Have just purchased the modern version of the Ontario M3 Trench knife, about £65 landed. Very good quality and still made in the USA. Camillus M3 circa 1944 is on sale by UK dealers for about £150 to £175. The modern Ontario M3 is better value if you are going to use it. Eickhorn in Germany also make bayonets. No need to put up with poor quality replicas if you can buy new from original manufacturers.