British Victorian Martini Henry Leather Scabbard

The British Victorian Martini Henry Leather Scabbard is an original 19th-century military accoutrement designed to house the bayonet of the Martini-Henry rifle, which was standard issue for British forces from 1871 to 1891. Constructed from thick, tanned leather, these scabbards feature a stitched seam along the length and often include a brass chape and locket for added reinforcement and to prevent wear. The design is tailored to fit the distinctive triangular blade of the Martini-Henry bayonet, ensuring secure storage and quick accessibility. A belt frog slot or loop is typically integrated into the upper section, allowing attachment to a soldier’s waist belt or webbing for ease of carry during mobilization. These leather scabbards were issued widely throughout the British Empire and are identifiable by their utilitarian construction and period-specific materials. They offer insight into late Victorian military equipment and represent an important component of British service gear during this era.