Bayonet Mastery: Comparing the Chinese Eighth Route Army and Japanese Forces during World War II

Visceral Close-Combat Between Chinese and Japanese Troops

As a Chinese writer, I naturally present this discussion from the perspective of the Chinese military.

The Anti-Japanese War stands out as a defining moment in Chinese history, epitomizing the nation’s resistance against imperialist aggression.

During WWII, Japanese soldiers were particularly adept at bayonet combat. They would strategically wrap several layers of white canvas around critical areas such as the abdomen and chest, aiming to reduce the lethality of incoming attacks by blunting the enemy’s blades.

The primary weapon employed by Japanese forces during this period was the Type 38 rifle, known for its rapid fire rate but equipped with the 6.5mm Arisaka bullet, which was designed more for accuracy and penetration over long distances than for immediate stopping power in close quarters.

This bullet’s design meant it could penetrate deeply but often exited the body without causing catastrophic internal damage, sometimes failing to quickly incapacitate an opponent even when hitting vital organs.

Furthermore, its high penetration could inadvertently harm fellow soldiers behind the initial target…