Bayonet adapters enabled rifles such as the Model 1817 and Model 1841 to be mounted with sword bayonets without weakening barrels by dovetailing in studs to engage the slots on the  bayonet hilts. As such this was another example of Confederate innovation to try to cope with northern industrial superiority. Not only were there many of those rifles in southern hands, there were Confederate-made rifles imitating them, particularly the M1841, and these could help militarize civilian rifles as well.

This is nice example of the Confederate Boyle, Gamble and McFee patent adapter, with a nice surface and even olive green patina, likely excavated but really only showing that by the rust on the iron adjusting screw. Boyle, Gamble and McFee, based in Richmond, made two models of this adapter, both consisting of a solid band that has a slight bridge to enable it to slide over a front sight, against which the muzzle ring of the bayonet would rest. The adapter would then be locked in place with a small tightening screw mounted in a slightly raised band on the adapter ring. The first model produced by the firm was unmarked and had a square stud. This second model uses a “footprint” stud and a couple of variations in markings. On this one we do not see the firm’s initials or location, but a very clear patent stamp reading, “PAT. SEP 2, 1861”with some rubbing to upper half of the “PAT.” and along the top of “SEP.” It also bears a prominent mating number, “15” on the bayonet stud, something necessary because of the hand finishing and fitting required between the stud and the groove of bayonet hilt.

This is a scarce example of a C.S. bayonet adapter with a clear Confederate patent stamp.  [sr] [ph:m]

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