AUSTRALIAN ISSUE WW1 BAYONET PRACTICE TRAINING MASK.
All Infantry soldiers during WW1 were trained in the art of bayonet practice to allow them to conduct bayonet charges, hand to hand combat and survive (possibly).
This mask is a rare item as it is one of the masks that have survived that was used during bayonet training. It differs from a standard fencing mask as it is a lot beefier and the gaps in metal grid that covers the face are closer together. It was made in Australia for the Australian Army during WW1 by 'Nutting and Young 386 Bourke St Melbourne and is also date stamped 1916'. Although showing signs of wear it is in pretty good condition and makes an excellent display piece.