McKeever Cartridge Box- 2nd Pattern, with M1879 Tool

McKeever Cartridge Box- 2nd Pattern, with M1879 Tool.  A nice earlier box for .45/70 ammunition. Brass staples help to hold the side panels firm to the front leather with embossed US. Made at Watervliet Arsenal.  The box has a great period saddler repair to one of the belt loops, using a heavy twine. Has the 20 loops made of webbing. and this 2nd pattern was made with a swell on the upper right side to hold hold a combination tool (pattern 1877).  This came with an 1879 pattern tool, and I am leaving it in-place. Doesn’t fit properly but the box still closes up tight. Some initials on the back, but can’t make them out.

A nice cartridge box with a period repair hardly ever seen.