French, 1874 Pattern T-Back Gras Sword Bayonet, dated 1879, Made at Oudry, Paris - RARE Maker

*French, 1874 Pattern T-Back Gras Sword Bayonet, dated 1879, Made at Oudry, Paris - RARE Maker*

Approximate measurements: 52cm blade, 64cm overall
Marked on quillon: T88498
Marked on the spine: "Paris-Oudry 1879" one of only two private sector makers in Paris fulfilling government contractors
Marked on ricasso: Indistinct proof mark

This bayonet was manufactured to fit the French Model 1874 “Gras” Infantry Rifle, a refinement of the Model 1866 Chassepot Infantry Rifle that enabled use of the 11.15 x 59 mm. centerfire cartridge, the M1874 rifle is referred to as the Gras, after the French Army officer who developed the conversion, Colonel Basile Gras. The “Gras” was manufactured from 1874 to about 1885. This bayonet was the last of the French “sword-type” bayonets.

The serial number is clearly embossed on the quillon “T88498”. The blade is marked on the back-edge (opposite the bottom cutting edge) with the arsenal, and year of manufacture; in engraved cursive writing “Paris-Oudry 1879”, there are some proof marks on the quillon and the ricasso.

This bayonet has a solid brass pommel with integral latching mechanism (push-button/spring-steel). Grips are wood. Crossguard is steel, “blued,” with upper guard being the muzzle-ring, lower guard forming a hooked “blade-breaker” quillon. Blade is 520mm – steel triangular (3-edge) in form (very sturdy as a thrusting weapon), 640mm overall.

*Condition*
The markings are surprisingly clear, the blade has age related tarnishing, the crossguard has some pitting. The grip is in good condition, the button works well. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.

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