Original French M1874 Gras Bayonet by d’Armes de Châtellerault with Scabbard- Dated 1883 Original Items

Original Item: Only One Available. This is a very nice early example of the long bladed bayonet for the French Fusil Modèle 1874 “Gras” Rifle, first developed as a cartridge conversion of their Chassepot Fusil modèle 1866 Needle Fire Rifle. The attachment dimensions were the same as the Chassepot, so the original “Yataghan” saber bayonets also fit, but the more modern straight design with the reinforced spine had superior penetrating power against any type of armor.

These were very often cut down or altered later on in their service life, though this one was not. The T-shaped spine of the bayonet is marked M’re d’Armes de Chat Mars 1883, indicating original Manufacture at d’Armes de Châtellerault, during March, 1883. The Manufacture d’Armes de Châtellerault (“Châtellerault Weapons Factory”), often abbreviated to MAC, was a French state-owned weapons manufacturer in the town of Châtellerault, Vienne. It was created by a royal decree of 14 July 1819 to manufacture swords, then (after 1850) firearms and cannons. Antoine Treuille de Beaulieu in 1840 began to develop the concept of rifled artillery at Châtellerault for the French Army. The Lebel Model 1886 rifle, the first military firearm to use smokeless powder ammunition and the primary French infantry weapon during World War I, was developed and produced here.

It is in good condition, with some evidence of past oxidation. The wood of the handle is nicely worn, and the brass pommel has a yellow green patina.

A good example of a hard to find bayonet, slightly shortened and ready to add to your French edged weapon collection!

Specifications:
Blade Length: 20 1/2″
Blade Style: T-shaped
Overall length: 25″
Crossguard: 4”
Scabbard Length: 23″