Bayonets vs. Dedicated Melee Weapons

[Accelerator]

You want a bayonet because a melee weapon is extra weight and logistics, and serves as another thing your infantryman must take notice of in the heat of battle. Imagine if you're in melee and you have to take 3 seconds to change weapons. You're dead. A bayonet is better and easier.

Also, swords are sidearms. and in terms of sheer Melee efficacy they're a distinct 2nd to polearms. more skill needed. More Metal. Less range.