French issue Gras sword bayonet in matching numbers issue scabbard.
£175
French issue Gras sword / epee bayonet in matching numbers issue scabbard. Hilt with rivet retained walnut grip scales, brass pommel and steel 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 ETTIENNE FEVR 1877 to the top for manufacture at the French Government’s famous ordnance works at St Etienne in February of 1877. In its regulation pattern blued steel scabbard with frog loop to the front, the scabbard serial numbered 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 sword with its sharp pointed epee stabbing blade. In good condition with very good well marked blade, working catch and a good matching numbers scabbard. A nice regulation French bayonet and scabbard.
