X8 Trials rifle Bayonet

[Lee Enfield]

Attachment 112001

BRITISH Trials X2E1 Type A FN F.A.L. Experimental Bayonet & X1E1 Scabbard
Manufactured by Fabrique Nationale (FN) in Belgium c.1954-55

The Wooden Grip versions of the F.A.L. Bayonet was designated for use in British Trials, Canadian Trials and Australian Trials - Designated as Type A. The other variations to this bayonet hold differing grips and other aspects to the prongs that differ - These examples were Type B and Type C. The wood grip designated version was not a commercial or re-branded bayonet and it is should be noted that all wood grip F.A.L. Bayonets were intended and supplied as part of contracts to England, Canada and Australia.

It is worth while noting that while a majority of X2E1 Bayonets trialed by Britain, Australia and Canada hold some form of the X2E1 markings and / or serial numbers, there are also examples for Australia and Britain where the Trials X2E1 bayonet held no identifying marks.

"X" - Prefix in Weapons nomenclature
"E" - Series of Subsequent Changes
These were ONLY applied to TRAILS or Prototypes

There were two tips as noted with the first example, these were modified as a result of damage. Both the long and short tip X2E1 bayonets were part of the trials.

I had heard that after the trials, the X2E1 was unsuccessful with the vast majority of the Type A bayonets having the blades broken, sold to a scrap yard with examples now out in the market with the blades welded back. Important to look for signature signs of this occurring.

While the X2E1 and Canadian Ex1 bayos are similar if not identical, there is a subtle difference in the shape of the latch.

If a bayonet is marked X2E1 it is NOT Canadian...

Canadian bayonets were un marked (except with standard FN inspectors markings) and only marked with the rifle serial number - usually at unit level.