Belgium—FAL Type C Bayonet

The Belgian FAL Type C bayonet is a simplified "socket" bayonet (with a hollow handle) for the FN FAL rifle. It was a cheaper alternative to the earlier Type A and B models.

Key features

• Design: The handle is a hollow tube that slides directly over the "combo device" (flash suppressor) of the barrel.
• Blade: The blade is approximately 17 cm long and has a semi-circular cross-section (flat on the top, rounded on the bottom).
• Finish: Usually phosphated (parkerized) or coated with black lacquer.
• Markings: Belgian examples are often unmarked, which sometimes makes identification difficult.

Variants

There are minor differences in the rear locking mechanism:

• Early version (M1963): The spring clip has ridges for better grip when unlocking.
• Later version (M1965): Uses a smoother spring clip with "wings".
• Cast version (1977-1988): The last series was cast instead of forged to save costs.

Scabbards

• Plastic: The most common scabbard is made of black plastic with a metal mouthpiece and a round button for the wearer (the "frog").
• Steel: Occurs less frequently in Belgian models and was usually used for specific export contracts.

This bayonet has none M1965 spring catch and is unmarked. This example is parkerized, with black paint over the parkerizing on the socket only (a very common finishing for these). This scabbard is an uncommon Fabrique Nationale (FN) steel-bodied scabbard. Note that the throatpiece is oriented so that the socket faces outward when carried. This is typical of most FAL Type C scabbards. This bayonet and scabbard combination was reportedly used by the Netherlands.