M1 Bayonet Question

[gap]

What is the proper orientation for the M1 bayonet/M7 scabbard, i.e., does the thumb release face towards the front of the soldier or towards the rear?

['Flage Guy]

The Army Basic Field Manual (FM 21-100) of 1941 states that the Bayonet be placed into the Scabbard with the muzzle ring to the rear on the Pack.

Reaching over with your right hand for the Bayonet, being able to depress the release with your thumb is facilitated by this position.

[gap]

Awesome, thank you sir!

[B229]

However, the opposite is true when the bayonet is carried in the prescribed postion on the left hand side of the cartridge belt. The muzzle ring is forward and the catch to the rear, to enable the soldier to remove it with his right hand. When performing "fix bayonets" from "order arms" the rifle is grasped with the left hand while the right hand removes the bayonet and fixes to the rifle. The rifle is then passed back to the right hand.

[gap]

However, the opposite is true when the bayonet is carried in the prescribed postion on the left hand side of the cartridge belt. The muzzle ring is forward and the catch to the rear, to enable the soldier to remove it with his right hand. When performing "fix bayonets" from "order arms" the rifle is grasped with the left hand while the right hand removes the bayonet and fixes to the rifle. The rifle is then passed back to the right hand.

 

Makes sense. FWIW, most of the WW2 photos I have seen depict the GI with his bayonet on the field pack.