French "1716 Contract" Hollow-Bladed Bayonet

Dateca.1715-1740

MediumIron and steel

DimensionsSocket: 3 5/16" Blade: 12 1/2" x 1 1/8" Overall: 17"

Credit LineMuseum Purchase

Object number2003-148

Label TextAt the same time France experimented with solid bladed bayonets early in the 18th century, they also tried out designs with "hollow" triangular blades. The latter sort had two deeply concave lower faces, and a wide top face with a shallow fuller extending back a few inches from the tip. Clearly superior, France retained this blade form until superseded by the Model 1777.

Based on archaeological and documentary evidence, we know that "1716 Contract" type bayonets were extensively used by French forces fighting in America during the French & Indian War. Examples have been recovered at Fort Ticonderoga, Fort St. Frederic (Crown Point, NY), and Fortress Louisbourg (Nova Scotia), including a few with blade markings identical those on this example.

The socket on this bayonet is unusual in that it retains its original two-step mortise. Later in the 18th century, many had a third step added to the lug mortise, in an attempt to further secure the bayonet on the musket.
MarkingsThe base of the blade is marked with a crowned equilateral cross flanked on either side by a "D".