Original Item: Only One Available. This is an excellent example of the American M6 bayonet, which was designed to fit onto the M14 Battle Rifle. The M14 was a rifle that was widely used by the U.S. military as its standard-issue rifle from 1957 onwards. It was the successor to the M1 Garand rifle, which had been in service with the U.S. Army since 1936. The M14 was chambered for the 7.62×51mm NATO cartridge and was renowned for its accuracy and reliability. This particular bayonet was manufactured in West Germany under contract for the Forces Armées d'Haiti, as indicated by the blade marking, "FAD'H". Its fine craftsmanship and excellent condition make it a truly remarkable item for anyone interested in military history or weapons.

According to available information, it has been reported that Haiti was provided with a substantial shipment of 1,250 M14 rifles in the year 1976 through the Military Assistance Program (MAP). However, it is perplexing that the records from the MAP do not indicate any delivery of M14 rifles to Haiti. On the other hand, the State Department's records reveal that Haiti had requested the purchase of M14 rifles in 1974 through Foreign Military Sales (FMS), which is not the same program as MAP. It is therefore reasonable to assume that the M14 rifles were delivered to Haiti through FMS. The delivery of any M14 rifles to the U.S. Forces during Operation Uphold Democracy in 1994-95 remains a subject of uncertainty. However, it is important to note that the 2004 Haitian coup d'état that removed President Jean-Bertrand Aristide from office witnessed the Haitian forces armed with M14 rifles, as seen in photographs taken during that period.

This particular bayonet is a fine example of the exceptional quality and craftsmanship that was produced by A. Eickhorn-Solingen (AES) in West Germany. It was manufactured specifically for the government of Jean-Claude "Baby Doc" Duvalier of Haiti, with production believed to have begun in 1985-86. However, due to Duvalier's exile in February 1986, deliveries never commenced, prompting AES to stop production and sell the bayonets that were already manufactured on the commercial market.

The blade of this bayonet is a work of art, showcasing the famous AES plum-colored finish and a unique Haitian serial number; 2967. The level of precision and attention to detail is unmatched by U.S.-made examples, and the handle is held in place with sturdy Phillips-head screws.

The scabbard of this bayonet is also noteworthy for its unique features. Unlike the U.S. M8A1, the lower portion is made of molded plastic without a metal tip protector. However, what really sets this scabbard apart is the size of the tie hole in the tip, which is much larger than that of a U.S.-made M8A1 scabbard. Overall, this bayonet is a fine example of superior craftsmanship and attention to detail that makes it a prized possession for collectors and enthusiasts alike.

Approximate Dimensions:
Blade length: 6 3/4”
Blade Style: Spear Point Bayonet
Overall length: 11 3/8”
Crossguard: 2 7/8”