Gorgeous Set of Saddle Holsters Circa 1830s-40s-SOLD

Description

Saddles holster are not necessarily a scarce item on the market today, but usually when encountered, they are either in worn down condition or missing holster flaps and other straps used to tie them down to the saddle. Not so with this set, made of a combination of bridle and pig skin leather.

I have just recently acquired these, and I have not determined precisely what pistols were carried within; I immediate guess would be either M1836 Waters or Johnson’s Pistols, either in flint or percussion, and M1842 Aston Single Shot pistols.  There very well may fit flint trade pistols imported from England so typically used by the militia in this period.

The holster bodies are made of extremely sturdy brown or bridle leather, trimmed out with applied leather at the openings, and simple leather caps (military holsters had brass cap finials at their base).   One side has an applied pouch for 4 cartridges, which are held in tin tubs.  The other holster has another pouch which held either flints or caps, etc. Amazingly,  The original knotted leather knots for holding down the flaps are still present.  These holsters are sewn down on pig skin skirts, and have two slots incorporated in them for straps that would be used to secure to the saddle.  The main straps are sewn to the pig skin skirts, and the two sections are joined by iron roller buckle.

Finally, the original flags are complete.  Made of stiff russet leather undersides and outside coated with a heavy enameling, with trimmed edging. The original tie down strap and buckle is present; this goes through the loops that still remain on the top of the skirt.

The overall leather finish if fine with little crackling, and scuffing to leather.  The straps show more crackling.  All leather is suple; all stitching is sound. The leather at the base of the tin tubes has worn through, but does not detract from the appearance.

No Maker’s name.

 

Holsters length   13″ approx.

widest measure of holster opening 4 3/4″

Straps are 2″ wide.

 

A wonderful set, and a rare opportunity to have one of these sets in a condition seldom seen.

USPS Priority $20.00