Carry the point of the bayonet down until it is at the height of the knee, moving the point of the bayonet sufficiently to the right (left) to keep the opponent's attacks clear of the point threatened.
These parries are rarely used, as an attack below the waist, leaves the head and body exposed.
42. Parries must not be too wide or sweeping, but sharp, short motions, finished with a jerk or quick catch. The hands should, as far as possible, be kept in the line of attack. Parries against _butt strike_ are made by quickly moving the guard so as to cover the point attacked.
43. To provide against attack from the right, left, or rear the soldier will change front as quickly as possible in the most convenient manner; for example: 1. _To the left rear_, 2. _Parry_, 3. _HIGH_; 1. _To the right_, 2. _Parry_, 3. _RIGHT_, etc.
These movements constitute a change of front in which the position of guard is resumed at the completion of the movement.
In changing front for the purpose of attack or defense, if there is danger of wounding a comrade, the rifle should first be brought to a vertical position.
Being at order arms, at the preparatory command quickly raise and turn the rifle, regrasping it with both hands between the rear sight and muzzle, barrel down, thumbs around the stock and toward the butt; at the same time raise the rifle above the shoulder farthest from the opponent, butt elevated and to the rear, elbows slightly bent and knees straight. Each individual takes such position of the feet, shoulders, and hands as best accords with his natural dexterity. _SWING._ Tighten the grasp of the hands and swing the rifle to the front and downward, directing it at the head of the opponent and immediately return to the position of _club rifle_ by completing the swing of the rifle downward and to the rear. Repeat by the command, _SWING_.
The rifle should be swung with sufficient force to break through any guard or parry that may be interposed.
Being at _club rifle_, order arms is resumed by command.
The use of this attack against dummies or in fencing is prohibited.
45. The position of _club rifle_ may be taken from any position of the rifle prescribed in the Manual of Arms. It will not be taken in personal combat unless the emergency is such as to preclude the use of the bayonet.