
This article explains why the British pattern 1907 bayonet was a virtual clone of the Japanese Arisaka bayonet, and why the US M1917 bayonet is a virtual copy of the P1907. Details about markings and other identifying characteristics are included.
Clint Smith’s Old Rifle course re-awakened in me a fascination with edged weapons that I’d had since my youth. Delving in chalybem vulnificum (into the wound-making steel) for an article on bayonets morphed into this resource for EW researchers and enthusiasts.
This article explains why the British pattern 1907 bayonet was a virtual clone of the Japanese Arisaka bayonet, and why the US M1917 bayonet is a virtual copy of the P1907. Details about markings and other identifying characteristics are included.
The shovel is actually a more effective APERS (anti-personnel) tool than than a bayonet. What it lacks in elegance and beauty it makes up in effectiveness and panache. Shovels are commonplace tools, but are seldom though of as a weapon you can use to defend yourself if you’re attacked in your garage or garden shed.
The Spanish learned, during their half-millenium occupation of the Philippines, how effective bolos are as close combat tools. Some Spanish bayonets were clearly modeled after bolos, intended for chopping as well as stabbing. This article discusses some of the history and identifying characteristics of two Spanish bolo blades.