French, Franco-Prussian War, Cut-Down 1866 Chassepot Bayonet Fighting Knife, Battle Damage

Original era manufacture. An interesting example of a modified Chassepot bayonet; the blade has been cut-down, and the guard reversed.The blade measures 8.75 inches in length, with a very dark steel patina finish, with evidence of cleaned surface corrosion. The guard has been reversed so to provide greater protection for the hand. The muzzle ring is bent back slightly,missing the connecting screw, and one half is torn off. Perhaps this was the reason this bayonet was chosen for modification.Whatever the reason for it's modification, it was donecleanly and fits the hand well.