Marine bayonet training

by United States. Marine Corps

Figure 18.—Jab to the Midsection.

SECTION 4: INDIVIDUAL DEFENSE

401. GENERAL

At times the bayonet fighter may lose the initiative and the opponent may move into the attack. Some defensive measures are therefore necessary for protection and in order to permit the bayonet fighter to regain the initiative. The basic defensive moves are the block and parry. The parry is effective against the jab, while the block is used against the slash and the vertical butt stroke. Timing, speed, and judgment are key factors in handling defensive moves. The parry is done either to the right or left, depending on the position of the incoming blade. If the opponent’s blade comes in above the bayonet fighter’s piece, the parry should be to the right. If it comes in below the bayonet fighter’s piece, the parry should be to the left.

402. PARRY RIGHT

a. Execution

(1) If the opponent’s blade is thrust toward the bayonet fighter in a position above the piece of the bayonet fighter, the parry will be to the right.

(2) From the guard position, step forward about 7 inches with the left foot, keeping the right foot as a base.

(3) Extend the left arm outward, to the right and down, engaging the opponent’s weapon and forcing it to the right and down. This is done by pulling the right hand back along the right hip. Ideally, the opponent’s weapon is engaged at the balance of the bayonet fighter’s weapon. The operating handle is pointed toward the deck after the opponent’s weapon is engaged. (See fig. [19].)