16054
W. Britain
Charging with fixed bayonets can seriously effect an enemy’s disposition, both mentally and strategically. Charges can be used as an offensive gambit or a desperate defensive maneuver. Either way, bayonet charges are most effective when carried out by a determined participant. Like this solder who has leveled his Brown Bess with its socket bayonet attached and ready. The steel bayonet blade was triangular and offset to one side allowing the soldier to load the musket. This standard British infantry bayonet was issued from 1722 through 1840.The last two recorded bayonet charges were both executed by British forces: 2004, a detachment of Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders against Iraq insurgents; 2011, a squad from the Prince of Wales Royal Regiment rushed a body of Taliban fighters.
These 42nd Highlanders are representative of soldiers as they would have appeared in Colonial North America from 1759-1763. They are a great addition to many conflicts from 1750s-1790s.