Czechoslovak VZ-58 Bayonet

The Czechoslovak VZ-58 bayonet is a knife bayonet designed for the 7.62 mm Samopal vzor 58 (Vz. 58), the standard assault rifle of the Czechoslovak Army from 1958 to 1984. Although the Vz. 58 outwardly resembles an AK-47, the bayonet was designed specifically for this rifle and is not interchangeable with Kalashnikov models.

Key Features

• Construction: The bayonet features a slim, single-edged blade with a deep blood groove (fuller) and a sharp point.
• Handle: The grips are made of beech particleboard (pressed beech wood with resin), often called "Beaver Barf" by collectors. These are typically attached with two rivets.
• Dimensions: The blade is approximately 16.5 to 17.5 cm long, with a total length of approximately 28 cm.
• Attachment: The locking mechanism is located in the crossguard, making a separate pommel at the end unnecessary.

Variants

Due to the long production period (1958–1984), several versions emerged:

• Early models: Had a shorter tang that did not run fully through the grip.
• Late models: Received a full-length tang that extends beyond the handle to prevent damage when the bayonet was used as a striking weapon.
• Crossguard: Later versions have an extended underside on the crossguard for better grip when used as a combat knife.

Scabbard

• Leather: The most common scabbard is made of brown or tan leather with an integrated belt loop.
• Vinyl (NBC): A rare green vinyl version exists for use in chemical or nuclear warfare, because this material is easier to decontaminate than leather.