Civil War Era Modified Bayonet – Turned Hook Tip – Approx. 20”

Civil War Era Modified Bayonet – Turned Hook Tip – Approx. 20”
 
An evocative and uncommon Civil War-era Austrian modified bayonet measuring approximately 20 inches in overall length, with roughly 2 inches of the blade tip skillfully turned into a hook form.
 
Period-altered bayonets of this type are believed to have been repurposed for post-battle duties, including the handling and movement of remains during burial details or disinterment. Such modifications reflect the grim and practical realities faced by soldiers and burial crews, where minimizing direct contact helped reduce exposure during recovery operations.
 
The alteration appears old and purposefully executed, consistent with field modification rather than modern reshaping. The blade retains age-appropriate patina and wear, further supporting its period character.