Genre:

News-Commentary

Subjects:

Military Technology, War, Internationalism, Surgery

Institutions mentioned:

Army

    Begins by describing the new bayonet to be supplied to British soliders, which will allow them to devour animals and cut wood. Presents an extract from a report noting that the new design of bayonet reflects both peaceful and offensive purposes. Punch notes that 'Arms of precision are abolishing hand-to-hand combats' and have 'semi-civilised' the bayonet. Proceeds to wonder whether the 'excessive destructiveness of improved guns' will lead to the 'destruction of war itself', a trend possibly evident in the conversion of bayonets for more 'pacific' purposes. Concludes by suggesting that the new bayonet could be used as a surgical instrument.