on the fixing of bayonets

[Macruran]

On PM packaging and in many fan dioramas bayonets are shown affixed to muskets like this:



However this is not correct. Bayonets in real life were always affixed at the tip of the musket, with the blade usually on the right side, like this:



Proof here, here, here, here, here, and here.

Fixing the bayonet in this way is not only historically accurate, it also looks a lot better.

There's a new style musket about. It has a front sight, which prevents the bayonet being fixed to the side, so it must be mounted underneath, like so:



The old style musket can have its bayonet mounted like this too:



(I suspect the front sight was not universal on muskets, and perhaps was used only on rifles of the period, but I am not certain.)

[Ismene]

Thanks for sharing that detail. I don't think I thought about it much.

[Richard]

Thanks, Macruran!
Hopefully, everyone will heed your post and stop fixing their bayonets incorrectly!

[Richard]

[tahra]

  I have always put mine on top. I will try and remember to fix that. 

[cheng]

You're absolutely right about the correct position..otherwise the rod cant be pulled out from under the barrel.
but I never found out why on the right only and never to the left.
btw, I only use these new rifles for my northerners' sharpshooters or those not fixed with bayonets....the newer rifle looks nicer of course...somehow they look longer (the older rifles need to be fixed with bayonets to appear longer...maybe this illusion works only for me )
Thanks too, Macruran!

[Macruran]

You're absolutely right about the correct position..otherwise the rod cant be pulled out from under the barrel.
I only use these new rifles for my northerners' sharpshooters

I didn't even think of that! The bayonet HAS to be mounted to the side.

[Macruran]

but I never found out why on the right only and never to the left.

I'd guess a left mount, being inside, would interfere with the musketeer's sight more.

[playmofire]

I understand that originally bayonets were actually fixed to the musket by being slotted into the barrel, meaning that it couldn't be fired when the musket was fixed to it.

[hauden_lukas]

I have mine on the left, because it looks better if the soldier has it in his right hand.

I would have thought that the thing should be mounted below so it doesn't interfere with sight. It looks best on the left (when using the right hand).

But I agree, it should be as far out as possible! The first pick is completely wrong! Good eye!