Copyright 2006 T. Sheil & A. Sheil All Rights Reserved
Lieutenant J. C. Kelton prepared a system of bayonet fighting for the Union in 1862. Based in conventional fencing, his method is similar to those of Pinette and McClellan. The footwork and maneuvering is that of 19th Century fencing. Most attacks are adapted from such common fencing moves as the thrust and lunge. Illustrations show how the lunge extends the rifle in one hand, which thrusts use two hands. The "development" is an extended footwork, which would impart both speed and impact.
Our copy of the book had only a few good illustrations.
Kelton wrote several versions of the book, one of which appeared in 1864.
Kelton and McClellan both influenced the bayonet fencing system used after the Civil War.
The illustrations shown here are interesting, as they depict a soldier in dress uniform. The clarity of the drawings and style of clothing make them excellent models for those designing their own military miniatures. Of all the Civil War era books, Kelton's has some of the best illustrations for the hobbyist.
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Thrust  |
Lunge  |
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Development  |
Lunge with Development  |
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Parry  |
Left Parry Against Cavalry  |
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Right Parry Against Cavalry  |
Riposte after Right Parry Against Cavalry  |
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Riposte in Prime  |
Riposte in Seconde  |
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Blow with the Butt to the Right with Development  |
The Charge  |
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Training Gear  |
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Disclaimer: the fighting methods shown here are for illustrative purposes only. They are not intended as actual instruction in bayonet fighting and should not be used as such. Close combat training is dangerous. It can be as dangerous for the user as it is for the target. If you wish to learn close combat, seek a qualified instructor. One should never attempt close combat without the instruction and supervision of a qualified expert instructor .