Original French WWI Lebel M1886 Nickel Handle Cruciform Épée Bayonet (First Pattern).

A fine first pattern example of the famous French M1886 bayonet for use with the 8mm Lebel rifle. The Lebel epee bayonet was the French mainstay during World War One. This bayonet introduced the cruciform (epee-like) blade. The Lebel bayonet was affectionately known as "Rosalie" by the troops who carried it. The M1886 was originally made with a nickel silver alloy grip but this was phased out in 1916 as nickel was in short supply and required for the war effort.  After 1916 the grips were made of brass and the bayonet was also manufactured without the hooked quillon.  The 520 mm distinctive cruciform blade is full length and has a rounded needle point (later blades were often shortened). The blade is in good condition with some light oxidation and is stamped with an inspection poincon.  The blued steel muzzle ring and block show some wear and bear inspection stamps (somewhat faded). The raised press stud with cross-hatched top is in excellent working order (the raised press studs were absent from later models). There is a serial number stamped into the handle groove.  The grips are of nickel silver alloy and are in excellent condition.

Overall length : 64 cm

Blade style : Cruciform "Épée"

Blade length : 52 cm

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