Spanish CETME Model L Bayonet

The Spanish CETME Model L bayonet is a military knife-bayonet developed in the 1980s for the 5.56mm NATO-caliber CETME Model L assault rifle. The design is based on the American M3 combat knife and the M4 bayonet, but features a significantly longer blade than comparable models such as the H&K G3 bayonet.

Key Specifications

The bayonet has the following characteristics:

• Total Length: Approximately 35.7 cm to 38.5 cm.
• Blade Length: Approximately 22.5 cm to 23 cm.
• Weight: Approximately 0.58 kg for the bayonet itself.
• Material: The blade is made of high-quality steel with a black, phosphated (parkerized) finish to prevent corrosion.
• Handle: An olive green plastic handle featuring 11 grooves for a firm grip.

Features and Design

• Blade Profile: The blade has a single cutting edge with a long, sharp back (false edge) at the tip, similar to the American M3 design.
• Mounting: The bayonet is attached above the barrel via a rectangular recess in the pommel that slides over the rifle's bayonet lug.
• Markings: The coat of arms of Toledo and the logo of the Instituto Nacional de Industria (INI) are often found on the ricasso (the flat part of the blade above the guard). Serial numbers usually begin with "ET", which stands for Ejército de Tierra (Army).
• Scaffold: The accompanying scabbard is made of green plastic with a metal mouthpiece and an integrated fabric belt holder (frog) with a wire hook.

Historical Context

• Production: Manufactured by the state factory Santa Bárbara Sistemas between 1986 and 1999. An estimated 100,000 units were produced.
• Usage: This bayonet replaced the older CETME Model C bayonet when the Spanish Army switched from the 7.62mm caliber to the lighter 5.56mm NATO caliber. In 1999, the CETME L system itself was replaced by the H&K G36.