A follow-up to the Model 1868 Trowel Bayonet, the Model 1869 one of the many attempts by the U.S. Army to develop and field a bayonet that could also act as a digging tool. The main adjustment between the two models was in response to concerns of soldiers attempting to use the tool for digging while fixed, as there was no means to keep dirt and debris from entering the muzzle. The front of the finger ring has been replaced with a hinged arm, which can be flipped up to plug the muzzle with a replaceable felt or leather tampion. Overall length is 12 3/4 inches, with the lightly dished triangular blade measuring 8 3/4 inches long and 3 7/8 inches wide, with the spine profile, joint, and socket all closely following the then-standard U.S. bayonet pattern. With a brown leather sheath, showing faint makers marks on the back of the riveted belt hanger and a brass tip.