An excellent French M1874 Gras epee bayonet made in 1878 with matching numbered scabbard.
The Gras bayonet was the last of the French sword bayonets. It was manufactured to fit the French Model 1874 Gras Infantry Rifle.
The 524mm “T” section epee blade is in excellent condition. The spine is engraved with the St Etienne armoury name and the production date of September (engraved, 7bre) 1878. The ricasso is stamped with two French inspection poincon.
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 retains its original blueing and the "blade-breaker" hooked quillon is marked with four inspection and acceptance poincon and the serial number, N 51296. The front of the crosspiece bears additional poincon, letters and numeral stamps.
The rolled steel scabbard retains its blueing and is in good condition. The scabbard bears the matching serial number, N 51296 and inspection stamps. The bayonet sheathes and draws smoothly and is held firmly within the scabbard.
This is an excellent, original and nicely marked example of an early production Gras bayonet.
