American fusil or fowler bayonet

Dateca.1775-1780

MediumIron/steel and brass

DimensionsSocket: 3 5/8" Blade: 10 3/4" x 1" Overall: 15 1/16"

Credit LineMuseum Purchase

Object number2007-98

DescriptionAmerican made Revolutionary War era bayonet based on the British style.
Label TextUntil war broke out in 1775, there wasn't much of a demand for socket bayonets, as there was an ample supply on hand in the colonies. Afterwards, the supply of new British bayonets was cut off, and the Patriots were forced to manufacture them locally.

Based on the "Brown Bess" bayonet, this little weapon was made for use on a civilian hunting gun or fowler as part of its adaptation for military service. Compared to a properly made British socket bayonet, it falls far short in quality and structural integrity. Instead of being welded together, the individual components of this slightly built weapon are simply brazed to each other. Had it ever seen heavy use in battle, there is little doubt it would have been easily bent or broken.