Country of origin: Bulgaria
Type: early AK bayonet, often designated 6X2
Blade: steel
Grip: metal construction with dark synthetic grip panels
Scabbard: metal, with hanger and retaining strap
Set includes: bayonet and scabbard with hanger
Bulgarian early-type AK bayonet with a straight steel blade and metal scabbard. Its design follows the Soviet bayonet commonly referred to in collectors’ literature as the 6X2. This type is characterized by a long, narrow blade with a longitudinal fuller, grip panels secured by two screws, and a curved metal pommel.
The history of this bayonet is associated with the development of the first Kalashnikov assault rifles. Early Soviet AK rifles were designed without a bayonet, while a separate detachable model was adopted into service in 1955 together with an improved AK variant. This explains the bayonet’s distinctive appearance: its mounting system uses a ring in the crossguard and a partial ring at the end of the grip.
The Bulgarian-produced variant retained the main design features of the Soviet model. It belongs to the armament of the Cold War period and reflects the spread of the Soviet AK system to other countries. In this case, the description “copy of the Soviet model” refers to the origin of the design and does not in itself indicate a modern reproduction.
Bulgarian examples are identified by features of the grip panels, numbering and scabbard suspension system. Reddish-brown mottled grip panels are frequently encountered, although repaired examples with black plastic panels are also known. The number on the pommel is usually oriented perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the bayonet. The suspension system may also vary, so these characteristics are assessed together.
The blade of the presented bayonet has a long longitudinal fuller and a tapering point. The grip panels are dark and secured with two visible screws. The bayonet is accompanied by a dark metal scabbard, a brown hanger and a leather grip retaining strap. A numerical marking is visible on the metal pommel.
Condition: scratches, finish wear and darkening are visible on the metal surfaces. The grip panels show signs of surface wear, while the leather retaining strap has areas of abrasion and discoloration.
