French issue Gras sword / epee bayonet in scabbard.
£135
French issue Gras sword / epee bayonet in scabbard. Hilt with rivet retained walnut grip scales, brass pommel and cross guard with hooked quilon to the lower half struck with various French ordnance issue and inspection marks. T section epee blade is struck with inspection stamps to the base and is signed MLE D’ARMES DE St ETIENNE MAI 1877 to the top for manufacture at the French Government’s famous ordnance works at St Etienne in May of 1877. In its regulation pattern black pained steel scabbard. Developed from the heavier brass handled Chassepot Yataghan bayonet the Gras has a lighter blade and wooden scales which made it a good weapon both when fitted to the rifle or as a standalone sword with its sharp pointed epee stabbing blade. In good condition with good blade, working catch and scabbard retaining much black paint finish. A nice regulation French issue bayonet of the Victorian age.
