Interesting statistic: less than 1/2 of 1% of recorded injuries were attributed to bayonets.
The bayonet could serve a practical use once you have fired your weapon dry in close quarters, but a 10 lb rifle makes a much better club than a pike pole. Really it's main purpose and service is as a psychological weapon.
The sight of hoards of screaming men firing and charging your position with bayonets fixed will send all but the most hardened battle tested troops into a terrified dash for their own lives.
