|
MODEL 1881 COLT/S&W HOLSTER – EXCELLENT FIRST
PATTERN: The first pattern of the Model 1881
Holsters as described in US Military Holsters and
Pistol Cartridge Boxes, Meadows, page 104, these
holsters were made with the narrow belt loop,
specifically made to be worn on the leather sabre belts
and predate the need for the larger belt loops that
would follow with the introduction of the woven
cartridge belts. As the new cartridge belts were
adopted, many, if not most, of these First Pattern Model
1881 Holsters were modified by replacing the belt loop
with larger loop as designed into the later holster
patterns, and these that escaped the modification
process are somewhat scarce.
The holster flap bears the legible “Rock Island Arsenal”
within a rectangle cartouche, correct for the First
Pattern holsters manufactured in 1881-1882. The tip of
the flap is stamped with “J.O.C.” the inspector’s
initials. The condition of this specimen is excellent,
with solid stitching throughout and with all of the
components, including the plug, intact. The body is
solid with an overall very good to excellent bright,
shiny surface to the leather, and an excellent strong
“US”. The body of the holster shows the outline of the
extractor housing, indicating that a Colt Model 1873
Single Action was originally carried in this holster.
The front lip of holster body has a commonly seen,
soldier affected, adjustment to the holster opening in
order to ease the return of the pistol into a flapped
holster. The center of the front lip edge has been
trimmed away in an arc in order to allow the forward
edge of the pistol’s cylinder to clear the holster
opening and seat into the holster without requiring the
soldier to use both hands, a necessary consideration
when the soldier was mounted on his horse. Loop is
likewise very solid and the surface is very smooth. The
flap is overall smooth, with only a minimal flexing at
the top of the fold as is to be expected.
These First Pattern M1881 Holsters in their original
configuration are anything but common, and one in this
remarkable condition in spite of the evidence of being a
holster that saw service in the field, will be a special
addition to complete your Models 1874 and 1885 Sabre
Belts, or your Model 1882 Cavalry “Sherman” Belt. $1575
|
