Marine bayonet training

by United States. Marine Corps

202. THE GUARD POSITION

a. General.—As in boxing the basic position of the bayonet fighter is the GUARD position. The bayonet fighter in this position is relaxed and alert. The initial attack movement begins from this position. Each movement consists of an attack and a recovery. The recovery is in fact a return to the guard position. In executing a movement the phases follow each other without a deliberate pause, thus making the entire movement a uniformly smooth action. The attack may be continued without returning to the guard position by repeating the same movement or utilizing another movement. In the guard position the bayonet fighter is ready to move into the attack to ward off his enemy. Figures 1 and 2 illustrate front and side views of a bayonet fighter in the guard position.

b. Position of the Feet.—The feet are spread apart about shoulder width. The left foot is about 6 inches forward of the right, in line with the right instep.

Figure 1.—Guard Position—Front View.

Figure 2.—Guard Position—Side View.

c. Position of the Body.—The body is held erect or bent slightly forward from the hips, if this is more comfortable. The knees are slightly bent, and the weight is evenly balanced on the balls of both feet. The right elbow is slightly forward of the right hip in a relaxed, natural position and the right forearm is held approximately parallel to the deck depending on the size of the individual. The head is held high permitting continuous eye contact with the opponent. The opponent’s facial expression, especially the eyes, may give the bayonet fighter warning of his intentions, but the bayonet fighter must also keep the opponent’s feet and hands in view through peripheral vision.

d. Position of the Hands.—The hands grip the rifle firmly, but not tensely. The left hand grasps the rifle just below the upper sling swivel, under the sling. The right hand holds the small of the stock behind the trigger guard.

e. Position of the Rifle.—The rifle is held so it bisects the angle made by the neck and the left shoulder. It is held a sufficient distance from the chest to contribute to the balance of the bayonet fighter, usually 10 to 15 inches. The right arm is bent slightly providing a firm, solid position. The extended position of the arms protects the bayonet fighter’s body against an attacker’s blows and permits ready parry movements. In the guard position the rifle is held as in port arms, except that the sling and cutting edge of the blade face the opponent.