French Shortened 1886 Lebel Bayonet

Many French Lebel bayonets started being shortened during the mid-thirties and into World War II.
The original 20-inch cruciform blades were found to be too cumbersome and weak, so they were shortened to a more manageable length.

This example is in good condition and is housed in its original scabbard. The cruciform blade measures 23 cm, with the scabbard measuring 27 cm.

An interesting bayonet.