Mauser bayonet question

I was wondering what's the purpose of the little hole in the handles of mauser type bayonets? Also what is the best way to protect the leather frogs without diminishing the value or orininality of the piece?

Thanks
Tom

The purpose of the little holes a you put it .
Is for the exit of debris & dirt that get pushed up inside the bayonet mounting hole.
if it was a blind hole the crud would compact up & prevent the bayonet from entering fully & engaging the catch.
With these holes present on either side of the grip scales. This will allow foriegn matter , & also excess oil, to escape to atmosphere! :thup:

Funny how after someone answers a question it seems perfectly obvious.

Thanks tankhunter.