Original French WWI Lebel M.1886/93/07/16 Rare Steel Handle Cruciform Épée Bayonet with Scabbard Original Items

Original Item: Only One Available. Known affectionately as “Rosalie” to French troops, the M1886 was the French mainstay during WWI and many were still in service at the Fall of France in 1940. The Lebel also saw extensive use worldwide by native troops in the French colonies. The M1886 introduced the distinctive cruciform “Épée” blade, which remained a feature of most French bayonets until 1956. This was intended to create such a terrible would that because of it’s shape torn open very easily condemning the poor recipient to a very painful and long recovery.

The bayonet design underwent many revisions during service history. The very first model is identified by a brass grip with a very small steel tang rod shown on the pommel of the bayonet. This was swiftly replaced with Nickel gripped version,and several other versions followed in 1893 and 1907, removing the “hook quillon”.

In 1916, this rare steel hilted version was developed. Unlike many, it was not cut down post war, and still retains its 20 1/2 inch long blade, with an overall length of 25 1/4 inches. For more information please see Watts & White The Bayonet Book, page 96, item 209.

The bayonet is and scabbard are both marked with various proofs and maker marks, which we are unfortunately unable to identify. The serial numbers do not appear to be matched. Condition is very good, and both the scabbard and bayonet are partly covered in dried arsenal preservative, which has a brownish color. We do not see any major wear or damage to the bayonet or scabbard.

A very nice example of a WWII French “Rosalie” bayonet, which still retains the full length blade, complete with scabbard. Ready to display!

Specifications:
Blade length: 20 1/2”
Blade style: Cruciform “Épée”
Overall length: 25 1/4”
Crossguard: 3 1/8 “
Scabbard length: 21”