M7 Bayonet
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The M7 Bayonet is a bayonet used by the U.S. military for the M16 rifle. It was introduced in 1964, when the M16 replaced the M14 rifle, and was gradually phased in throughout the Vietnam War.
The M7 is quite similar to the older M6. The most notable differences between the two are the diameter of the muzzle rings, the more ergonomic shape of the M7's handle, and the locking mechanism. The M7's release mechanism is on the pommel and the M6 has a spring-loaded button near the guard that releases the bayonet when gripped. Both models are approximately the same length, both are black, and both use the M8A1 scabbard.
The M7 was replaced to a certain extent by the M9 and, later in the Marine Corps, by the OKC-3S.
See also
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