This bayonet was the last of the French "sword-type" bayonets. It was manufactured to fit the French Model 1874 "Gras" Infantry Rifle. The "Gras" was manufactured from 1874 until 1885.
This bayonet is in fair condition and has a solid brass pommel with a press stud and external spring locking mechanism which works perfectly. The wooden grip scales are in good condition. The steel Cross-guard is marked with “N 74687” and the "blade-breaker" quillon is marked with three inspection/armoury stamps. The front of the cross-guard is marked with a square cartouche containing a symbol which looks like the letter “T” over stamped on the number “7.” Additional markings in this area to either side of the blade are “B,” the number “33” and a “2^1.”
The spine of the blade is engraved with the armoury name and date of manufacture, October 1878.
The blade is in fair condition with mild age related tarnish and is slightly crooked towards the point.
