An excellent original example of the French Model 1866 bayonet, designed for use with the Chassepot bolt-action rifle, adopted during the Second French Empire. The M1866 “Yataghan-blade” bayonet features a distinctive curved blade with a broad single fuller, forged from high-quality steel and measuring approximately 575mm in length. The hilt is made from brass, with a solid ribbed grip and a steel crossguard featuring a forward-swept quillon.
This example is clearly marked to the Tulle Arsenal, with a production date of July 1868, making it an early model issued just before the Franco-Prussian War of 1870–71. The spine of the blade is crisply marked: “Mre Impr de Tulle, 7bre 1868” (Manufacture Imperial de Tulle, July 1868 – archaic French spelling).
Includes its original steel scabbard with matching serial, complete with ball finial and matching age patina. The locking mechanism and press-stud are in working order.
Condition: Very Good, little original finish on the scabbard
Overall Length: Approx. 690mm
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