French Model 1886 Lebel Bayonet
"Shortened" (aka 1886/35)


This is a cruciform - 4-edged - blade that is nothing more than a "pig-sticker". It was manufactured to fit the French Model 1886 Lebel Infantry Rifle and saw action in WWI and WWII in various configurations. The original model was ~25" in overall length, while this one has been shortened to ~18" overall. They have a hooked "blade-breaker" quillon and silver-alloy (white metal) grip/hilt. This variant is also different from the original in that it employs a removeable handle to allow for blade replacement (the blades were very fragile); the original was permanently fixed.
The bayonets were eventually intended to be replaced by the French Model 1892 Mannlicher-Berthier Bayonet (and infantry rifle).
The scabbard is tubular in shape, with rounded tip (no finial).

If you need further information, please request such on the Weapons Identification Service page.
Return to the Bayonet Identification Page
©2001-2008 - C. Alan Russell - All rights reserved.