Bayonet fit question

[Griebz]

Hey all,

Here's a question, when the Bayonet is fixed, how much play and wiggle is considered acceptable? Are there ways to tighten the socket?
JUst wondering as I'm sitting here pondering if I need a new bayonet for my 42 Springfield.

Regards

PEter Griebel

[flattop32355]

It ought to have minimal play, while still sliding on and off easily.

That said, with reproduction weapons and bayonets (repro or original), it's not an exact science.

So long as there is no chance of it lifting off over the lug (or sight, for other weapons), I wouldn't consider it a major problem, though possibly an annoyance.

You could probably get it sleeved, but that may be more trouble than it's worth.

[Griebz]

It definatly is annoying. But not enough to have it sleeved.

Peter Griebel

[Rob Weaver]

If it stays on and locked during inspection arms and while stacking arms, I would consider it adequate. The fit between repro muskets and bayonets is problematic. But realistically, we don't use bayonets for their orignal purpose, and rarely, if ever drill with them vigorously. (If you feel your bayonet is not really adequate for abyonet exercise, you can simply opt not to fix it.)

[Jim Mayo]

If it stays on but the looseness really bothers you clean the inside of the socket real good and lay a small bead of solder on each end. Be sure and flux.Remove solder by filing until you like the fit. It will work for a while until the solder wears down.

[Griebz]

HEy Jim,

I actually did something like that, I used jb weld epoxy, actually works pretty good.

PEter Griebel