ANTIQUE/World War I - St. Etienne, 1873 production, French Model 1866 Chassepot Yataghan Sword Bayonet With Scabbard

The French Model 1866 Chassepot Bayonet was designed for France's then-cutting-edge Fusil Modele 1866. The rifle was a breech loaded bolt-action which utilized a Dreyse-inspired pinfire system, and could propel its 11mm bullet at 1,345 FPS - creating devestating ballistics far superior to large caliber Minie balls.

The Yatagan (Yataghan, Ataghan or Varsoc) was a hugely influential Ottoman sword design. The double bend added strength, rigidity, and the slashing ability of a sabre (saber) while allowing the sword tip to still thrust. This design soon became adopted in bayonets where it was utilized by the Dutch, French, Americans, British, and numerous other countries throughout the world.

The model 1866 bayonet was famously utilized in the Franco-Prussian War in 1870, but continued to see use through World War I and beyond. This bayonet was used on both Chassepot and the later 1874 Gras rifles.

This model is marked Mre d' Armes de St-Étienne, 1873 indicating that it was made in the latter half of 1873. St. Etienne was arguably the finest arsenal in France, with a very high standard of quality. The bayonet is in very nice condition with sharp arsenal markings. The scabbard has surface rust. The scabbard and bayonet are serial numbers matched. There are several light nicks on the blade consistent with use.


This bayonet is antique surplus, and may feature minor wear, light rust, dust and minor imperfections, none of which take away from it's beauty.  As-Is. No returns or refunds. Call 205-533-8595 with questions.