Original French Late 5th Republic 46 Infantry Regiment “Presentation” MAS 69 Bayonet and Scabbard For FAMAS Rifle Original Items

Original Item: Only One Available. This is an almost excellent condition French bayonet specifically designed for the 5.56 mm NATO caliber FAMAS (Fusil d’Assaut de la Manufacture d’Armes de Saint-Étienne) Bullpup Rifle. The bayonet is almost identical to the M1949/56 bayonet, with the only real difference being the scabbard design. The scabbard has a plastic body, a web belt hanger and a retention device that ensures the bayonet remains securely in place.

The FAMAS is a remarkable service rifle that started its service life in 1978 and is still currently being used by the French armed forces. One of the noticeable features that sets it apart from the M1949/56 is the bayonet mounting above the barrel which is similar in design to the German G3. The FAMAS rifle has a strikingly unusual profile when viewed from the side, which is why the French troops have nicknamed it le Clairion, which translates to “the bugle” in English. Its bull pup-style design gives it a compact and ergonomic feel, making it an ideal weapon for close quarters combat.

The blade itself has a beautiful parkerized finish and bears no markings whatsoever. The top of the crossguard is marked with MAS 69 indicating the type. The black plastic grips scales are smooth without any defects and has a small 46e régiment d’infanterie insignia affixed to the right grip.

The scabbard bears several markings including DLT and the date 01 83. DLT identifies the manufacturer as Durol SA (Durol Corporation), of Thiers. Durol has been in existence since the 1600s, as a manufacturer of cutlery. This example was made in January 1983.

A lovely example ready for further research and display.

Specifications
Blade Length: 8”
Blade Style: Single Edge Spear Point W/ False edge
Total Length: 12 ¾”
Scabbard Length: 8 ⅝” with belt loop