French Model 1874 Bayonet

This Model 1874 bayonet was made by Mre d'Ormes de St. Etienne in 1878. The bayonet is in very good condition. The blade has minor staining to the original polished finish. The guard and pommel have a dark patina. The scabbard retainsmuch of its blue, although there are a number of scratches and dents.

The Gras rifle, introduced in 1874, was a conversion of the Chassepot rifle in order to allow it to take a metallic cartridge. Introduced at the same time, the Gras bayonet was a departure from the design of the earlier Chassepot bayonet, having a epee style blade suitable only for thrusting.