Description
Book SynopsisFeaturing specially commissioned color artwork and drawing upon a range of sources, this engaging study casts new light on the origins, development, construction, and use of the bayonet in warfare from the mid-17th century onwards.
Although muskets delivered devastating projectiles at comparatively long ranges, their slow rate of fire left the soldier very vulnerable while reloading, and early muskets were useless for close-quarter fighting. Consequently, European infantry regiments of the 17th century were composed of both musketeers and pikemen, who protected the musketeers while loading but also formed the shock component for close-quarter combat. The development of the flintlock musket produced a much less cumbersome and faster-firing firearm. When a short knife was stuck into its muzzle, every soldier could be armed with a missile weapon as well as one that could be used for close combat. The only disadvantage was that the musket could not be loaded
Table of Contents
Introduction Development Use Impact Conclusion Glossary Bibliography Index
