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Up close and personal
In today's technology-driven battlefield there is a misconception on the value of bayonet training. The main focus of bayonet training is not to prepare Marines to "go over the top" in a massed bayonet charge as in World War I or the Civil War. Bayonet training is a physical means of developing and reinforcing a combat mindset. There are several factors in developing a combat mindset, some of which are hard physical training and mental training. The bayonet provides a physical vehicle for developing these as well as providing Marines with additional time handling weapons and moving with weapons.
The primary physical aspects of bayonet training are body position, body mechanics, and functionality of movement. Anyone trained in close quarters battle (CQB) techniques will realize that the body position and movement in bayonet training are practically the same for CQB. The mental tie-in is reinforcing the mindset of approach, close, and enter.
The misunderstanding of bayonet training requires a review of some of the basic principles and techniques involved.
Movement
Approach is when you have located the opponent and then shoot him. For the purpose of bayonet training, this will begin at 20 to 25 meters. Again, shoot and move toward the target. Movement is done while delivering assault fire, moving quickly but not at a run. Maintain a low silhouette and utilize terrain and cover to aid your approach. Continue to deliver fire while you still have rounds and a functioning weapon. The fire will fix your opponent in place and diminish the effectiveness of his possible return fire.
Close is done when you reach a critically close range under 10 meters, and the opponent is still functioning. At this distance change your rate of speed and/or offset your approach direction. This is normally done by increasing speed, again without running, and off stepping right or left to expose a greater target area on your opponent. Again, shoot if able, don't run, and maintain a low silhouette.
Entry'is the business of making contact with your opponent. Utilizing the pointy end of the bayonet or the muzzle, thrust into an exposed vital area on your opponent; e.g., face and neck, stomach or groin. Do not stop on contact; utilize your...