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Although the bayonet appeared as a weapon attached to an infantryman's musket as early as the middle of the 17th century, it was not a standard weapon until the beginning of the 18th century. Then, most European armies made use of this "knife like" spear attached to the barrel of muskets. The bayonet extended the standard musket to perhaps a six to seven foot "spear" and useful in hand to hand combat. It was not effective against cavalry soldiers with long lances. Often times the bayonet was not always attached to a musket before a battle began. In the course of battle when ammunition was used up or when it was clear that it was needed, soldiers could attach it in an infantry charge.

In the US Civil War, the bayonet was not viewed as an essential item for the infantry, however, within any number of battles, the frontline of a charging force were so close to the enemy, there was no room for a soldier to sight and shot at the enemy. In such cases, the bayonet was essential.

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How did the word bayonet come into the English dictionary?

The word "bayonet" entered the English language in the late 17th century, derived from the French word "baïonnette." This term is believed to have originated from the town of Bayonne in France, where the weapon was first made. Initially, bayonets were designed as a means to convert a musket into a spear for close combat. The adoption of the bayonet by various European armies contributed to its widespread use and incorporation into military terminology.


What is the name of a weapon with a blade?

sword, knife, bayonet


What weapon was a central part of the European linear tactical battle system?

For the most part, the European linear tactical battlefield system revolved around the capabilities of the single shot smooth bore weapon. All major European armies used this firearm.


What weapon was used in conjunction to a musket?

A bayonet is a thrusting weapon placed on the muzzle of a musket or rifle which turns the weapon into a spear.


Why do think that the bayonet became an old fashioned weapon during this war?

The bayonet became an old-fashioned weapon during the war due to the rise of modern firearms and advancements in military tactics. As armies increasingly relied on rapid-fire rifles and automatic weapons, the need for close-quarters combat diminished. Additionally, the introduction of trench warfare made traditional charges with bayonets less effective and more dangerous, leading to a shift toward more strategic and ranged combat techniques. Consequently, the bayonet's role in warfare was reduced, marking it as an outdated weapon in the context of modern combat.


What is the most usable weapon during World War 1?

It should be the bayonet


Who was the bayonet named after?

it was named after the Bayonne in France (where the weapon was first made or used);


What is a bayonett?

a bayonet is a long or short blade that is affixed to the end of a rifle. this goes back to 1700's in time. the bayonet is usually removable from the weapon.............


What is a bayonet and what is it used for?

A bayonet is a small knife - which can be fixed (by its handle) to the end of the barrel of a rifle - so the soldier still has an effective weapon if he runs out of bullets.


What is the name of the knife on a gun?

The knife on a gun is typically referred to as a "bayonet." A bayonet is a blade that can be attached to the muzzle of a firearm, allowing the weapon to be used for close combat. It serves dual purposes, functioning as both a firearm and a melee weapon.


What weapon was first used in World War 1?

the single shot rifle with bayonet


What are some weapon names beginning with b?

· baseball bat · bayonet · bazooka · Beretta