Mc Pheeters Antique Militaria
Home Page About Us Ordering Information Links

 

     

MODEL 1912 SERVICE POMMEL POCKETS FOR THE MODEL 1912 ENLISTED MAN’S TRIAL SADDLE  – EXCELLENT COMPLETE SPECIMEN IN SOLID CONDITION:  Introduced with the Model 1912 Service or Enlisted Man’s Trial Saddle, these Model 1912 Service Pommel Pockets were an integral part of that innovative saddle system.  As was the case with most of the Model 1912 Horse Equipment, these Pommel Pockets were designed especially for the Model 1912 Saddle, and all that equipment integrated to provide the cavalry trooper with a well equipped, secure saddle pack. 

These Pommel Pockets consist of two generous sized pockets, or bags, sewn to a base which was long enough and contoured so as to pass over the pommel and hang down on each side of the saddle. The pockets are sized to accommodate specific pieces of equipment – the “near” or left side pocket to carry the canteen with the cover and the cup in the main compartment and a set of wire cutters in the smaller pocket; and the “off” or right side pocket to carry the meat can, mess utensils, and grooming supplies.  A small outside pocket was provided on the off side for the soldier’s personal items.   

While showing some evidence of issue and use, this set of Pommel Pouches has survived in excellent condition.  The exterior leather surfaces are bright and retain their original finish.  All of the components are present and intact, all of the seams are intact, the straps and billets are supple and full length, and the buckles, leather slot keys, and keepers are present.  Of special note is the presence of the full length attaching straps which were used for securing the pockets to the saddle – normally missing from surviving specimens.  The leather has a pleasant medium brown color and it is not oil soaked or showing any weakness.  The center section, also known as the “yoke” or “seat”, which passes over the pommel of the saddle is still strong and does not show any weakness.  One side of the yoke is stamped “ROCK ISLAND ARSENAL 1915”, indicating a desirable early production, and the other side of the yoke is stamped “1 D 55”, indicating this set was issued within the First Regiment of Cavalry, Troop D, and was identified to soldier number 55 on the issue rolls.  In addition to the standard slots provided by the original design for mounting the pockets on the box rings on the pommel of the saddles, the soldier who used this set carefully cut an additional set of slots for adjusting the position of the pockets as they set on the saddle, likely making for a more comfortable seat for the soldier.  This was well done and in no way weakens the yoke.  In the overall scheme of rarity and condition, I would rate this set well above average and far better than is normally encountered.   

An added value, the Meat Can Pouch is present in the off side pocket where it buttons to the base.  Made of lightweight canvas, and shaped to match the shape of the pocket, this pouch held not only the meat can, but it is also fitted with two pockets which held and protected the mess fork and knife.  The pouch is full form, however it does show some wear on the lower edge where it wore against the interior of the pocket.  Otherwise, all the seams and utensil pockets are intact.   

One of the key elements of the Model 1912 Service Saddle, this set of Model 1912 Pommel Pockets is a significant addition to any U.S. cavalry collection, particularly to complete your saddle, and is of such quality that there would few opportunities to find a better example.  SOLD

 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Ordering Instructions

Identified Items  

Firearms

Edged Weapons

Saddles and Horse Equipment

Accoutrements

Collectors Ammunition

Uniforms, Insignia, Hats

Canteens and Mess Gear

Gun tools, Bullet molds and Parts

Field Equipment and Artillery

Original Ordnance Manuals, and Photos 

US Army Medical

Reference Books and Reprints