Bayonets

Graz, 1704/05

At the same time that robust flintlock rifles were being adopted throughout Europe, the bayonet was also introduced. Bayonets are blades that are either inserted into the gun barrel (plug bayonet) or attached next to the barrel (socket bayonet) with a device, so that the gun can also be used as a stabbing weapon. The 66cm-long plug bayonet has a double-edged blade and is combined with a conical wooden handle. The disadvantage of this was that it was not possible to shoot at the same time. For this reason the plug bayonet was subsequently replaced by the socket bayonet.