An Assault at Arms – Sword Versus Bayonet – from Harper’s Weekly, (May 16, 1874), p. 421

As we explore sabre, and stepping off-line to attack in a more combat-like fashion, consider this image of sabre versus bayonette. It is an engraving by an unknown artist featured in Harper’s Weekly, May 16th, 1874. Before the prevalence of electronic media, such assaults of arms were held as entertaining spectacles. This striking image, comprising nearly a full-page, is captivating in its own right. The actual assault must have been dramatic. Unfortunately, the image resolution is such that only portions of the text can be read.