WW1, Original,  French,’ Épée-Baionnette Modèle 1886 Modifié 1915′ or  Lebel M1886/15 Bayonet and Scabbard

*WW1, Original,  French,’ Épée-Baïonnette Modèle 1886 Modifié 1915′ or  Lebel M1886/15 Bayonet and Scabbard*

The French sword bayonet used with the Lebel rifle is a simplified version of the M1886 Bayonet. It is the Épée-Baïonnette Modèle 1886 Modifié 1915 (M1886 Sword Bayonet modified in 1915) and was manufactured during the First World War. It is equipped with a 37cm épée cruciform blade and comes with a steel scabbard. The bayonet also features a brass grip with a curved quillon. From 1916, due to the necessity of conserving nickel for the war effort, the handles were made from brass. This particular bayonet bears the serial number H35473 and has various inspection marks, a T marked within a circle on the cross guard, another on the ricasso, there is a 5 on the pommel, and an 8 on the scabbard finial.

The M1886 bayonet introduced the distinctive cruciform blade, a feature that became characteristic of most French bayonets until 1956. This style was commonly described as having a “cruciform cross-section,” drawing a comparison to the épée swords used in fencing.

Many of these bayonets continued to be used, even during the Fall of France in 1940, and the Lebel rifle saw extensive service in France’s overseas colonies.

*Condition*
This bayonet is in excellent condition with minor signs of age and service related wear and tear. The scabbard fits snugly. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.

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