M1964 Spanish

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	Weapon: M1964 Spanish Type: Knife Bayonet Country of Origin: Spain Year Adopted: 1964 Overall Length (mm): 300.0 Overall Length (in): 11.81 Weight (kg): 0.30 Weight (pounds): 0.66

The M1964 Spanish bayonet was developed for use with the Spanish CETME Modelo C battle rifle, a 7.62mm NATO firearm derived from the German StG 45(M) design. The bayonet features a sturdy, multi-purpose blade approximately 210 mm (8.3 inches) in length, with a spear-point profile and fuller. It incorporates a black plastic grip, a steel crossguard with a muzzle ring, and a push-button pommel for secure mounting. The bayonet was designed not only for close-quarters combat but also for utility tasks, reflecting the shift toward multi-role equipment in post-WWII military doctrine.

Production of the M1964 bayonet began in the early 1960s to complement the widespread adoption of the CETME Modelo C rifle by the Spanish armed forces. Manufactured primarily at the state-owned arsenal of Toledo and other Spanish military production facilities, the M1964 was produced in significant quantities to arm both regular army and reserve units. While exact figures are not widely published, thousands were issued domestically, and additional numbers may have been exported or distributed to allied nations using CETME-pattern rifles.

The M1964 bayonet remained in service through the Cold War era and into the late 20th century, eventually being phased out with the adoption of newer NATO-standard rifles such as the HK G36. While not as widely known as other Cold War-era bayonets, the M1964 holds historical significance due to its association with the CETME rifle program and Spain's post-war military modernization. It is a valued piece among collectors of Cold War militaria, particularly those with an interest in European small arms development.