French Model 1874 Gras Bayonet

This Model 1874 bayonet was made by Mre d'Ormes de St. Etienne Ferrier in 1876. 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 retains the majority of its blue with minor marks only.

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.