This is a great example of the famous French M1886 bayonet, made circa 1915 for use during WW1 with the 8mm Lebel rifle. The Lebel bayonet was the first to use a cruciform (epee-like) blade and had a long service history. The Lebel bayonet was affectionately known as “Rosalie” by the troops who carried it.
The M1886 was originally made with a nickel-silver alloy grip but this was phased out in 1914 as nickel was in short supply and required for the war effort. After 1914 the grips were made of brass and the bayonet was manufactured without the hooked quillon. The Lebel epee bayonet with its distinctive cruciform blade was the French mainstay during WWI and was produced by numerous private contractors, many of which were not previously associated with the production of weaponry.
The 520mm distinctive cruciform blade has a rounded needle point. The blade is in excellent condition and is stamped at the base with the manufacturer’s initials, C. F. This maker remains unknown today. There are no inspection stamps on the blade.
The steel muzzle ring and block are in excellent condition and bear the serial number 76418, prefixed by a calligraphised letter K. The raised press-stud with knurled top is in excellent working order. The cast brass grip is in excellent condition.
The bayonet is complete with its matching numbered steel scabbard. The scabbard is in good condition. The scabbard retains its black finish and bears the matching serial number, K76418. The bayonet sheathes and draws smoothly and is held loosely within the scabbard due to the flattening of one of the internal leaf springs.
The bayonet is complete with its French M1874 brown leather frog. These frogs were used first with the M1874 Gras bayonet and then with the M1886 Lebel.
This is a great matching numbered example of the iconic French Lebel bayonet, complete with frog.
£195.00
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