The 7 Best AR-15 Bayonets of 2024: All Budgets
Over the years, we’ve seen a lot of cool and crazy AR-15 accessories. The versatility of the AR-15 is one of the things we most love about it. Of all the accessories we’ve tried and tested, one of the most overlooked add-ons are AR-15 bayonets.
Bayonets? We know what comes to mind.
A good bayonet can serve a number of purposes, such as being an effective weapon in close-quarters combat, a handy tool in utility tasks such as cutting wire, or as an essential bushcraft survival tool. For people looking to buy their first AR-15 bayonet, we recommend the Ontario Knife Company 6143 M9 Bayonet. Of all the bayonets we’ve tested, we think the 6143 M9 is the most complete and reliable offer on the market.
If you’re looking for a more budget friendly option, something more old school, or a better value pick, we have other recommendations, too.
BEST AR-15 BAYONET: OKC 6143 M9
Ontario Knife Co. 6143 M9 Bayonet & Scabbard
As the saying goes, if ain’t broke, don’t fix it. The OKC 6143 M9 Bayonet is one of the most widely used bayonets on the market. It comes with a scabbard, which is a nice bonus.
Who this is for: Anyone who wants a solid AR-15 bayonet for tactical situations, utility tasks, and survival that’ll last for years to come. If your goal is to own a bayonet that can perform just about any task and is used by some of the most advanced military elite in the world, this is it.
Why we like it: The OKC 6143 M9 is built to handle any task, with features like a 7-inch blade made of maintenance free 420 stainless steel for strength and corrosion resistance, and a textured thermoplastic handle for a comfortable grip. In our tests to determine the best AR-15 bayonet, we found that this one performed all of the tasks we wanted on our rifle – it was easy to install, the blade was sharp enough to cut and split timber well, and it combined with the scabbard to create a reliable wire cutter.
The saw teeth milled into the spine give it some added functionality, like working as a fire starter when paired with a piece of flint. Bonus points, it’s made in the USA.
Flaws but not dealbreakers: Some people may find the 6143 M9 Bayonet priced too high for their budget. If that’s the case, get the Wartech M-9 Bayonet or the Smith & Wesson 8 in M-9 Bayonet (two of the other picks in our guide to AR-15 bayonets).
The blade is only 7 inches. Some users may prefer a longer blade, which is why we list some other 8in options on the market below.
Some other bayonets have deeper teeth serrated on the side of the blade. That may be important to some users.
Handle: 5.25″ Kraton
RUNNER-UP: OKC 6504 OKC-3S Bayonet
Ontario Knife Co. 6504 OKC-3S Bayonet
As the USMC-issued bayonet for M16 and M4 carbines, this is about as genuine as you can get. It boasts razor-sharp performance and a solid build quality. An excellent addition to any collection.
Who this is for: Someone who wants a top notch AR-15 bayonet with a blade length of 8 inches, and is primarily concerned with combat usage. As you will see, there are a few key differences between this and the 6143 model, but the quality and performance are still the same. It will be an ideal choice for veterans looking to complete their service rifle setup or for those who appreciate military history.
Why we like it: Among the AR-15 bayonets we tested, the OKC 6504 Bayonet was easy to install on our rifle, it was sharp out-of-the-box, and it’s made with 1095 carbon steel. The blade is one of the sharpest on the market, which is probably why the Marines like it so much. Like all OKC models, this is made in the USA.
Flaws but not dealbreakers: While the bayonet does come with a scabbard, it does not include the clip to use as a pair of wire cutters.
Handle: 5.3″ Hytrel
BEST BUDGET BAYONET: Wartech M9
Wartech M-9 Bayonet
The Wartech M-9 Bayonet is our choice for the most budget friendly option. It’s a sturdy and affordable option for those looking to add a reliable blade to their collection. As a well-constructed M9 clone, it offers good quality and durability for the price.
Who this is for: Someone who wants a decent, classic style M9 bayonet at an affordable price.
Why we like it: Among the budget AR-15 bayonets we tested, the Wartech M-9 Bayonet was the sharpest and felt very sturdy. When we put it in the bayonet lug, it didn’t move. Additionally, it comes with a sharpening tool on the sheath, which allows you to sharpen it in the field if needed.
Flaws but not dealbreakers: We had issues fitting the bayonet on a rifle with a flash hider. Some creative work with a file did the trick, and we were able to get it placed into the lug. Once we did, it was very sturdy.
Handle: Black ABS with clip
More for AR-15 Owners: Best AR-15 Barrels, Best AR-15 Upper Receivers, Best AR-15 Triggers, AR-15 Buyer’s Guide
CLASSIC PICK: Ka-Bar 1211 Knife w/ Adapter
Ka-Bar 1211 Full-Size Black Hard Knife
The classic. We rank this lower on our rankings because its more of a fighting knife than a bayonet, but don’t let that fool you. This is still a great bayonet option. You will need an adapter to connect it to an AR-15.
GrabAGun (See Price)
Bud’s Gun Shop (See Price)
SMKW (See Price)
Who this is for: Someone who is primarily looking for an old school great tactical knife that could, when needed, be attached to an AR-15 as a bayonet. You’ll get a high quality knife at a decent price.
The knife comes with a hard plastic sheath for safe and easy carry. Overall, the Ka-Bar 1211 is a reliable and versatile option for those in need of a tactical knife for their AR-15.
Why we like it: Ka-Bar is known for making great knives. We’ve tested a lot of their products and have always been super impressed with the quality. This one has a 7 inch blade made out of 1095 carbon steel.
We found it made for a great survival knife—after whittling wood to start a fire, it was still very sharp. There’s also the option of the classic Ka-Bar Marines Fighting Knife if you want to go for the classic military look. Oh yeah, its also made in the USA.
Flaws but not dealbreakers: As we mentioned, this is more of a tactical knife and would require an AR-15 bayonet adapter. You can carry the sheath and knife on your person, and keep the adapter in a gadget pouch or ruck sack.
We thought the OKC 6143 M9 Bayonet (our top pick) had more versatility to offer. The 1211 doesn’t come with the wire cutters or saw milled teeth along the spine, but nonetheless, if you’re looking for a great combat or survival knife, this will still get the job done.
Handle: Non-slip Kraton G
BEST UTILITY USES: Smith & Wesson SW3B M9
Smith & Wesson SW3B Special Ops M-9 Bayonet
Smith & Wesson makes great products, and this bayonet doesn’t stray from the path. It’s great for both tactical and utility use. We particularly like the notched spine, which you’ll find is great for cutting rope or paracord. An added bonus, this is one of those bayonets that can be combined with its scabbard to create a pair of wire cutters.
Optics Planet (See Price)
Smokey Mountain Knife Works (See Price)
Who this is for: If versatility and strength is what you’re looking for, this is one’s for you. It’s a great combat knife, but can also whittle wood, cut rope and barb wire, and attach to an AR-15 without the need for an adapter.
Why we like it: Compared to all of the other AR-15 bayonets we tested, this one offers the most versatilty. The spine has deep teeth, which were helpful for cutting paracord and rope. It comes with a lifetime warranty.
Flaws but not dealbreakers: Right away, our testers noted that they didn’t like the plastic handle. The grip was comfortable, but there were concerned about durability.
The clip scratches the black coating very easily. We recommend removing the little piece of plastic on the inside of the sheath (use a steak knife or EDC knife). On that note, this is made with stainless steel, which is arguably less durable than carbon.
This is not designed to work with a carbine rifle, it was meant to be used with a military issue 20″ barrel AR and 14.5″ barrel M4.
Handle: Kraton G thermoplastic elastomer handle
EDITOR’S PICK: Rothco GI-Style M9
Rothco Stainless Steel GI-Style M-9 Bayonet
There’s not much to differentiate this bayonet from the other M9 style bayonets on our list, but Rothco makes good products, and this one includes most of the features we like. It has a saw back and includes a sheath, giving you all of the functional utilities for a smaller price point. You can pick it up in black or olive drab.
Who this is for: Guys like me that aren’t too picky and like Rothco products.
Why we like it: This is my personal pick for an AR-15 bayonet. I’ve enjoyed using some of Rothco’s tactical gear, like their shoulder bag, and decided to give this bayonet a try. I found it did the trick. It cost a little less than the OKC bayonets, but was still easy to attach to my AR. It includes the wire cutter feature, which is something I like to use on my property.
Flaws but not dealbreakers: Users may not be big fans of the plastic handle, but the knife does what it’s suppose to.
Handle: GI Plastic
BEST M7 BAYONET: Wartech H-16M M7
Wartech H-16M M7 Bayonet Knife with Sheath
The Wartech H-16M M7 Bayonet Knife with Sheath are a classic combination that have been used by the US military for decades. We’d recommend having at least one M9 and one M7 style bayonet. The M7 is more of a battle bayonet and lacks some utility features, but this one has a 6.75-inch blade with a clip point and a serrated edge.
The M10 Scabbard is nice. It’s made of durable molded plastic and has a belt clip.
Who this is for: Collectors, or those that just like to kick it old school.
Why we like it: It harkens back to the old days and the tools our forefathers used just a few decades ago. This is a combat knife, it was meant for battle. Just point and jab, and it’ll get the job done.
Though harder to find these days, you can also look for the OKC 494 M7 Bayonet.
Flaws but not dealbreakers: Technology has improved over the last 100 years, and improvements have been made as far as AR-15 bayonets go. This is a classic bayonet, it doesn’t include a serrated spine or wire cutters, but it’s still effective in combat.
The blade doesn’t come super sharp, and our testers thought it needed some time on the sharpening stone before it was ready to go. Additionally, they thought the metal loop for attaching to a belt was a bit wonky.
Handle: Black molded plastic.
Read our full review here.
What are AR-15 Bayonets?
When we talk about bayonets, what comes to mind may be the muzzleloader types depicted in movies based on the Revolutionary War. It’s not far from the truth. Bayonets have been used in warfare for centuries, and they continue to have a place in modern tactical situations.
What exactly do we mean by “AR-15 bayonets?” Simply put, an AR-15 bayonet is a knife or blade that can be attached to the muzzle of an AR-15 rifle. It is not the primary use of the rifle, but it is a helpful add-on for many situations.
Why Use a Bayonet?
Bayonets may seem outdated and unnecessary in modern combat, but there are still a number of reasons why they can be useful. Primarily, a bayonet can serve as a backup weapon in close-quarters combat situations. That’s not exactly the first weapon of choice when going into battle, but accidents happen, such as a gun jamming or malfunctioning.
Better to have a backup, right?
In those situations, an operator must have the ability to fight, because let’s face it, what combatant is going to wait for you to fix your rifle?
“Just a minute, I swear this never happens.” Stage fright, amirite?
Bayonet Utilities
Bayonets do more than just serve as battle weapons. They have a number of utility tasks that can help operators perform in the field.
Cutting Wire or Rope
Bayonets can be highly effective for cutting wire, especially when used in conjunction with their sheath. Many models feature a small peg that the bayonet can attach to, creating a makeshift wire cutter.
Here is a prime example of this functionality in action.
Field Dressing
While you might typically have a hunting knife you like to use for this sort of thing, a bayonet can also get the job done. If you’re on a survival trip or bushcrafting in the wilderness, rather than going all Sméagol on that brace of coneys, you can use your bayonet to slice up your meal and prepare it.
Splitting Timber/Bushcraft
Bayonets are excellent tools for wilderness survival, perfect for tasks like splitting timber. When you’re out in the wilderness, you might need to start a fire for warmth or to cook food.
You can use the bayonet to chop wood and shave off small pieces to use as kindling. Collect these shavings into a pile, and then strike the bayonet with a piece of flint to ignite the fire.
Bushcraft requires a robust and durable knife capable of powering through a substantial section of wood. We’d recommend going with the OKC 6143 M9 for this sort of thing.
Warning Combatants
Finally, it’s worth noting that a bayonet can also serve as a powerful psychological deterrent in combat situations.
“There is nothing that a Marine wants to hear more than ‘fix bayonets’ and nothing that the enemy fears more,” said Sgt. Jonathan Shue, III Marine Expeditionary Force.
The mere presence of a bayonet fixed to a rifle can instill fear and uncertainty in opponents, potentially influencing their decision-making and actions on the battlefield. The sight of a bayonet signals a readiness for close-quarters combat, often perceived as a more personal and intense form of confrontation.
This psychological impact can be a crucial factor in the dynamics of engagement, sometimes even leading to the resolution of conflicts without the need for physical combat. The bayonet’s role as a symbol of resolve and aggression underscores its significance not just as a tool, but as a strategic element in warfare.
How to Choose the Right AR-15 Bayonet
There are a lot of options on the market, it can be tough to know which AR-15 bayonet to choose. Here are the main factors to consider when making your decision:
Blade Length
How long do you want your blade to be?
Size matters, or so some say. AR-15 bayonets come in a variety of lengths, typically between 6-12″. This is one of the first things to consider when choosing an AR-15 bayonet. Longer blades are better suited for combat situations, while shorter blades are better for utility tasks such as cutting a wire fence.
Blade Material
The choice of blade steel is crucial, and it’s essential to research the particular steel’s strengths and weaknesses. We wrote an in-depth guide to carbon vs stainless steel if you want to read more on it.
Always research the type of steel a bayonet has before making a purchase.
Here are some widely recognized, reliable steel types:
- AUS-8
- 420HC
- 154CM
- S30V
- 1095
- 440C
Stainless vs. Carbon:
Both stainless steel and carbon steel have their advantages. Let’s explore each type briefly.
Stainless Steel:
Stainless steel knives excel in overall strength and corrosion resistance. They’re unlikely to rust, chip, or bend easily. Additionally, stainless steel knives often have a more polished appearance.
On the downside, although they’re easier to sharpen, stainless steel blades typically don’t retain their sharpness as long as high carbon steel.
High Carbon Steel:
High carbon steel blades can achieve an incredibly sharp edge, almost surgical in precision. While they may be somewhat more challenging to sharpen, they maintain a sharp edge through extended and demanding use, making them ideal for accurate cutting.
The main drawback of high carbon steel is its susceptibility to rust faster than stainless steel.
Handle Material
Knife handles come in a wide variety of materials and designs. While there isn’t a specific checklist to follow when selecting a handle type or material for a survival knife, some guidelines can help you make the right choice.
It’s essential to find a handle that offers a full, comfortable grip, filling your hand entirely. This feature will contribute to your ease of use and minimize fatigue during extended periods of work.
As for materials, there are numerous options, including leather, G10, various polymers, and rubbers. It’s generally advised to look for a textured handle to prevent the knife from slipping during use.
A good handle should also allow you to maintain a secure grip when your hands are wet, sweaty, or even while wearing gloves. Avoid overly aggressive textures that may cause hot spots or discomfort during extended use.
Sheath
Finally, consider the type of sheath that comes with the bayonet. Traditional sheaths, such as the M10, are not designed for modern gear. In fact, there are few options on the market that offer MOLLE webbing. We recommend you consider what gear you have and how you will attach the sheath to it
On the flip side, some sheaths, such as the M9, come with a sheath that features a flathead screwdriver and wire cutter, and includes a sharpening stone. Picking the right sheath just comes down to personal preference.
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Final Thoughts
There’s something badass about affixing an AR-15 bayonet to the end of your rifle. It looks cool, but it also harkens to a time long ago when bayonets were commonly used in war.
Either way, choosing the right AR-15 bayonet can make a big difference in the effectiveness of your rifle. Whether you’re looking for a blade for combat or utility use, there are plenty of great options on the market today. Hopefully, some of the factors we listed, like blade length, blade material, handle material, and sheath design will help you make the best decision.
Now it’s your turn to share your thoughts…what AR-15 bayonet do you prefer for your survival needs? We’d love to hear your opinions in the comments section below!
Justin Trump is the managing editor and owner of CAT Outdoors. The son of a Vietnam veteran, he’s an avid gun enthusiast and 2A advocate. He holds two firearm patents for the CAT M4 and Talon tools. When not managing CAT Outdoors, he enjoys spending time with his family and friends, rooting for Michigan sports teams, and serving his church.
Spike machine makes AWESOME picatinny rail mount QD bayonets for modern AR’s, in lengths up to 12″.
I have reviewed them on my youtube channel.
m9 is the worst bayonet out there. I had over 200 in my arms room and they constantly broke. Better off with a $50 m7 AMZ clone. The wire cutter is f-ing stupid.