This scarce French M1874 Gras epee bayonet was made under government contract by the Oudry factory in Paris. This is a scarce maker. Most Mle 1874 Gras rifle bayonets were produced by the French government armouries at St. Etienne, Chatellerault and Tulle.
The Gras bayonet was the last of the French sword bayonets. It was manufactured to fit the French Model 1874 Gras Infantry Rifle that was produced until 1885.
The 524mm “T” section epee blade is in good condition and is clearly engraved on the spine with the maker’s name and location, “Paris – Oudry” and the production date of June 1878.
The solid brass pommel has a press-stud and external spring locking mechanism that works perfectly. The wooden grip scales are in good condition. The steel crosspiece is marked with italicised initials an inspection mark and a serial number.
The rolled steel scabbard is in excellent condition. The bayonet sheathes and draws smoothly and is held firmly within the scabbard.
This is a good example of the famous Gras rifle bayonet, nicely marked by the Oudry factory, one of only two private sector makers in Paris.
