Opinions on this k98 bayonet ?

[John333]

Is this bayonet genuine ? Is it best to wait for one with matching serial numbers ? 

[Fritz]

The bayonet certainly looks genuine, an average well looked after example with no rust, and most bluing, probably slightly retouched.  However, the scabbard hook is not correct, presumably a repair or a replacement at some stage.  Non-matching numbers, which is normal, it is very hard to find matching numbers, and these would cost more.  The scabbard is marked (Alex) Coppel (Solingen) 1940. The bayonet pommel to the rear has two WaA (Waffenamt) markings, the numbers somewhat unclear. You can check the lists of the WaA numbers under various sources. Bakelite grips, which were the most predominant in WW2,  in place of the previous wooden grips. A fair example, but because of the scabbard hook variation/repair, I would not go for it, a shame that this flaw spoils an otherwise nice bayonet.