I realize that by WWII the frequency of bayonet fighting was low, but this is a question that has always puzzled me.
It's well documented that bayonets were used extensively at Kapyong. Both B and D Coys of 2 VP made bayonet charges, and all companies used them in hand to hand night fighting. As far as combat effectiveness, I know of neither any glowing praise nor any complaints. I guess you would say "it worked." They're light, simple, sturdy, and not too cumbersome when fixed. From that pov they're pretty good.
That's just one battle. I think they were used way more in Korea than people think. They're also seen fixed in the footage of 2VP training in Korea prior to their first engagements, so clearly they expected and planned to use them.

Fix bayonets is still part of section battle drill at least up to 20 years ago...
https://ottawacitizen.com/news/nati...-behind-the-scenes-at-the-canadian-war-museum
Last edited: