201. GENERAL
a. The basic starting and recovery position in bayonet fighting is the guard position. From this position all movements can originate. This includes movements to attack an enemy, which will be covered in section 3; movements to change direction; and movements of the feet. These movements are natural, instinctive, and easy to teach and execute. They bear a close resemblance to the established athletic skill of boxing. Although the hands are held in a relatively fixed position, the arm and foot movements, feinting, speed, and balance are markedly similar. In this system, the rifle and bayonet are used as a club or quarterstaff, as well as a spear. There is no sportsmanship in bayonet fighting. The opponent must be destroyed, not merely defeated.
b. Descriptions of movements will state approximate distances. These distances may be adjusted to suit the individual. All movements described are for a right-handed bayonet fighter.
c. The rifle and bayonet in the hands of a trained Marine become a deadly combination of spear, sword, club, and shield.