Bayonettfechten (Bayonet fencing) ?

[Hans1906]

The so called "Bajonettfechten" was taught in the german Imperial Army, which was also still common in the Reichswehr, and in the later Wehrmacht ?

Searching the forum for the german term "Bajonettfechten" showed up no results.
(Attached image from a very old postcard)
Comparable close combat was taught in the former DDR, there are some photos online...

Thanks for more hints and answers...


Hans1906

[Richard Anderson]

Bayonet training (formerly bayonet practice) is still part of the training regime in the U.S. Army and Marine Corps.

[Hans1906]

Thank you, Richard,

in the german Bundeswehr in the 1970s, a bayonet was no longer issued to us young soldiers, the reasons are unfortunately unknown to me.
But I can understand the reasoning, all it takes is a first look at the trench weapons used in close quarters combat during WWI.

Hans1906

[mikel]

We did a certain amount of this in the US army in the 60s.
Pugil sticks were more commonly used.
Bayonets were issued and used in training.
"What is the spirit of the bayonet?"

[Hans1906]

mikel, thank you very much,

the term "pugil sticks" was new to me personally.

Quote: "What is the spirit of the bayonet?"
Sorry, unfortunately I do not understand, what was or is meant by this?

Do you want to elaborate on that, I would love that, thank you.


Hans1906