Bayonets

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The modern bayonet – from military stabbing weapon to multi-purpose knife

The bayonet was originally intended to combine firearm and blade in warfare. Conventional infantry was becoming less important in the face of the increasing hail of bullets, but reloading rifles still took a long time. The steel spike or blade attached to the muzzle of the rifle enabled soldiers to switch to close combat after firing a shot. In modern warfare, the bayonet has long since become obsolete, but that has not taken away any of the blades' historical fascination.

Not just for the trenches - bayonets as multifunctional tools

Bayonets are among the sharpest and most dangerous blades. The knives have extremely hard blades and usually integrated holders. Even if it is theoretically still possible to mount the blades on the barrel of a weapon, nowadays they are more attractive due to the functional way they can be worn on a belt, leg holster or waist belt. This makes the bayonet an important addition to the survival kit for adventure holidays. The long, robust blade can easily handle thick ropes and sturdy wood.

Generally speaking, modern bayonets are more geared towards these survival skills and are therefore more like multifunctional knives. Due to their military background, these knives can be drawn particularly quickly and are therefore the perfect tools for the wilderness. Sharpening stones are also often integrated.

Modern use of the bayonet

Traditional (or traditionally oriented) bayonets are now used more for formal military service and put appearance above function. Shiny steel blades for parades are real eye-catchers, but should not deceive anyone into thinking that they are also sharp knives. Accordingly, caution is always advised when handling the bayonet.

All knives should always be kept safe and out of reach of children.

What should a bayonet offer as an outdoor knife?

Bayonets are durable knives made of steel alloys and are therefore almost indestructible. To make them suitable for outdoor activities, at least one saw should be integrated into the blade. A whetstone in the sheath and a holster that can be easily attached to your own equipment are also important.

Questions: Bayonet

Is a historical bayonet a good choice?

Historical bayonets from military stocks, especially from the Warsaw Pact armies, are readily available and an excellent choice. However, for full-fledged use as an outdoor knife, a saw is missing - but these knives are still durable and indestructible. Buyers should be aware that used bayonets can sometimes show heavy signs of wear. If aesthetics play an important role, you should always buy reproductions or new bayonets.

What can you use a bayonet for?

Bayonet knives were designed by the military as cutting and stabbing weapons and therefore have pointed and sharp blades. However, as the saw function is often missing, bayonet knives are only partially suitable for outdoor purposes. Many modern bayonets also have a wire cutting function. The sheath supplied allows the bayonet to be attached to many holsters, belts or straps and is therefore always at hand. The military bayonet is ideal as a multi-purpose knife, particularly due to its durability and flexible carrying options.

Are bayonets still used militarily?

As with knives, there is often a choice between stainless steel and the harder, but not rustproof carbon steel. Which material is ultimately better depends largely on the intended use. Carbon steel blades are more robust, but require more intensive care. If the machete is only used occasionally, stainless steel can be the better choice in many cases.

How do you properly care for a bayonet?

Since knives are made of steel or steel alloys and are designed for durability and stability, no special care is usually required. The matte blades in particular are easy to care for and cleaning with water is often sufficient. Shiny, decorative steel bayonets can be polished without hesitation.