Abstract: A bayonet system includes a bayonet and a scabbard in which the bayonet is received for storage. The bayonet is formed with an integral blade-and-tang unit. A plastic handle is molded over the tang, with a portion of the tang protruding from a butt end of the handle. A latch plate is attached to the butt end of the handle assembly by a radial rivet to the protruding portion of the tang. The latch plate includes a pair of retainer arms fixed to the latch plate with pins that can be driven out to effect removal of the release arms. The scabbard has a housing with an integral load assembly at its upper end, integral recessed tie-down loops adjacent to its lower end, and an integral hand guard extending from one side at a position intermediate the upper end and the lower end.