*French, WW1, Model 1886/15 Lebel Cruciform Spike Bayonet with Matching Scabbard – Tulle Arsenal Serial T15880, Rare Wartime Blackened Steel Grip*
A fine original example of the French Model 1886/15 Lebel cruciform spike bayonet, complete with its matching numbered steel scabbard. This iconic “Rosalie” pattern bayonet was issued to French infantry during the First World War for use with the Lebel and Berthier series rifles.
The bayonet features the distinctive four-sided cruciform spike blade designed specifically for thrusting, mounted to a steel hilt with the characteristic wartime blackened finish. During the later years of the war, shortages of strategic metals such as nickel and brass led to the introduction of blackened steel grips, such as the example seen here, generally associated with wartime production around 1917–1918.
The crossguard carries the serial number T15880, which is repeated on the scabbard throat confirming the pair remain together as originally issued — a desirable feature as many examples were separated during service or later surplus disposal. The serial number prefix “T” indicates manufacture and assembly at the Manufacture d'Armes de Tulle, one of France’s principal state arms factories. The blade ricasso bears the marking “SG”, believed to represent a wartime blade forging contractor or inspection mark. During the height of wartime production, French state arsenals frequently used blades produced by industrial subcontractors before final assembly and acceptance.
The hilt retains the correct Lebel pattern cylindrical grip with the spring catch locking mechanism intact and functioning. The steel scabbard is of the standard tubular pattern terminating in the rounded ball finial typical of Lebel bayonets.
Approx. Measurements – Blade length: 52 cm. Overall length: 64 cm.
History Note:
Introduced in 1886 alongside the Lebel Model 1886 rifle, this bayonet became one of the most recognisable edged weapons of the First World War. Nicknamed “Rosalie” by French soldiers, the long cruciform blade was designed primarily for thrusting attacks and reflected the aggressive bayonet doctrine of the period. Early examples were produced with a hooked quillon on the crossguard, but in 1915 this feature was officially removed after it was found to snag on equipment and barbed wire. The resulting simplified pattern became known as the Model 1886/15.
Lebel bayonets were widely issued not only to metropolitan French troops but also to colonial forces serving across the Western Front and other theatres of the war.
*Condition*
An honest untouched example showing typical service age and patina. The cruciform blade remains straight and clean with visible machining marks and light surface wear. The steel hilt retains its original darkened finish with areas of natural age patination. The locking mechanism remains present. The steel scabbard shows consistent age toning and light surface oxidation. Importantly, the scabbard retains the matching serial number T15880. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
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