French issue Gras sword / epee bayonet in scabbard.
£145
French issue Gras sword / epee bayonet in scabbard. Hilt with brass pommel has release catch to the rear left and flat retaining spring to the right. Rivet retained walnut grip scales, cross guard with hooked quilon to the lower half and barrel loop to the top. ‘T’ section epee blade is struck with inspection stamps to the rear right and is signed MLE D’ARMES DE CHATa FEVRIER 1884 to the top for manufacture at the French Government’s Ordnance works at Chatellerault in February of 1884, the first half of the signature polished and indistinct. In its regulation pattern blued steel scabbard, the scabbard number miss matched to the blade. 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 short sword. In good condition with good blade and scabbard retaining much of its original blued finish. A nice regulation French issue bayonet of the Victorian age.
