i would suggest a case gage for whatever cartridge you're reloading. you can check brass case length, set your sizing die, check the finished cartridge when done. very useful tool
@unforgivenafter reading that you knew where and when your bayonet was made, it made me curious about mine. i looked it up and mine is not dated but utica cutlery made their run from 42-45 and a late run in 53. my m1's are both springfields.