American Revolutionary War Period Early 18th C. French Plug Bayonet with FINE Reversible Handle Amazing piece!

This American Revolutionary War period early 18th-century French plug bayonet is a fine and highly attractive example with a reversible handle dagger form and engraved blade decoration. The piece measures approximately 21 inches overall, with a 14 1/2 inch blade. The blade is inscribed and engraved with decorative motifs, while the handle is finely carved and mounted in silver. The quality of the handle, silver mounts, and engraved blade decoration gives the bayonet a level of refinement far beyond a plain military example.

Plug bayonets represent one of the earliest major forms of bayonet development, predating the socket bayonet that became standard in later 18th-century warfare. Rather than fitting around the muzzle, a plug bayonet was inserted directly into the barrel, temporarily converting a firearm into a spear-like weapon but preventing it from firing while fixed. By the American Revolutionary War era, plug bayonets were already an older form, but examples remained in circulation, especially as heirloom weapons, sidearms, hunting pieces, and early military accoutrements. French arms and edged weapons played an important role in the broader material culture that fed into the Revolutionary War period.

This is a beautiful early bayonet with strong collector appeal due to its quality, age, and decorative execution. The engraved blade, fine reversible handle, carved grip, silver mounts, early French form, and Revolutionary War period association make it a standout piece for collectors of early bayonets, French edged weapons, Colonial American arms, and 18th-century military material.

Dimensions: Approximately 21 inches overall, with a 14 1/2 inch blade.

Why Buy From Us?

• 5-star rated store trusted by collectors
• Fast, reliable shipping
• Expertly handled collectibles, always packed with care

INTERNAL USE: