A good, original example of the French Model 1886 Lebel bayonet, commonly known as the “Rosalie.” This is the cut-down version, produced when the original 20inch blades were found to be too long and impractical for modern warfare. To improve handling in close quarters and trench fighting, many of these bayonets were officially shortened during and after World War 1.

This bayonet features the classic cruciform blade, with two clear French arsenal inspection stamps visible on the ricasso. The blade itself measures just under 23cm, and the total length including the scabbard is approximately 39cm. The crossguard is clearly stamped with the serial number 86953. There is also a serial number present on the scabbard ring, though due to wear and age it is now difficult to make out (please see photos).

A very interesting and collectable bayonet.