The Existence and Evolution of Switchblade and Retractable Bayonets

Bayonets, once the primary melee weapon for infantrymen, have evolved significantly over the years. While the conventional fixed-blade bayonets remain the standard, switchblade and retractable bayonets do exist. However, their practicality for military use has been questioned due to reliability and design considerations. In this article, we explore the history and current state of switchblade and retractable bayonets, including notable examples from earlier designs to modern productions.

Do Switchblade Type or Retractable Bayonets Exist?

Yes, switchblade and retractable bayonets do exist but they are not commonly used by the military for several reasons. A switchblade, while interesting and potentially useful in civilian applications, is not as reliable as a fixed-blade bayonet. The role of bayonets has also evolved; modern bayonets, made after 1950s such as the M6H3, 6H4, KCB-77, and M9, are designed to have multiple functions, including survival knives and multi-tools. This multi-purpose design is why switchblade or retractable types are seen as poor choices for contemporary bayonet duties.

Early Examples

The concept of retractable and folding bayonets has a long history, with early designs dating back to the 19th century. For instance, the M1903 Springfield rifle initially featured a retractable rod bayonet which doubled as a cleaning rod. However, this design was later replaced with a standard blade bayonet due to objections from President Theodore Roosevelt. One of the few original M1903 rifles that retained the rod bayonet can be seen in a Rock Island Auction.

Historic Innovations

Retractable bayonets were also experimented with earlier, such as the rod bayonets found on the Springfield Model 1884 and Model 1888 rifles. The concept even appeared on the 1833 and 1836 variants of the M1819 Hall rifle, featuring the first standardized sliding retractable bayonet.

Folding bayonets, on the other hand, saw greater usage, with notable examples in the Dutch M1826/30 musketoon and the Japanese Type 44 Cavalry Carbines. The Italian Carcano rifle variants and the Mosin-Nagant M44 carbine also incorporated side-folding cruciform bayonets. The SKS, or Samozaryadny Karabin Sovetskogo Standarta, is perhaps the most well-known rifle with a standard folding bayonet.

Modern Designs

While the first patents for a trigger-activated spring-loaded bayonet appeared in 1854, no major military force adopted a switchblade mechanism for bayonets. However, modern civilian and experimental versions exist. Companies like Kel-Tec, CCCP, and OKC have developed folding bayonets, with the Kel-Tec and CCCP versions being mounted on M7/M9 bayonet lugs and AKM and AK74 rifles, respectively. OKC's retractable bayonet, though recently released, shows similar potential for failure.

While these designs bring novelty and potential for multi-purpose functionality, their durability and practicality remain questionable, particularly for military applications. The world has largely moved towards detachable bayonets that can also serve as wire cutters or sawing tools, offering greater reliability and versatility.

Overall, the evolution of bayonets reflects a continuous effort to improve their utility and reliability. The modern military prefers utilitarian and reliable designs over innovation that compromises on performance and durability.