M-1881 holster question

Mossyrock · April 29, 2009, 08:14:40 AM

Well, two questions, actually. How wide is the belt loop on the back of an M-1881 holster, and who would you consider to be the best source for same? Gracias!

Texas Lawdog · April 29, 2009, 09:18:27 AM

Cimarron Arms Co. has one for $91. in their on-line catalog.

Trailrider · April 29, 2009, 03:11:21 PM

Howdy, Pard,
There were actually five (5) different belt loop widths for the Pattern 1881 holsters. The first was to fit the 1-7/8" wide enlisted saber belt; the second (c. 1882) was sligtly wider to fit the "Cavalry" belt, which was a leather belt with suspended D-rings to carry various equipment (saber, holster, knife scabbard, etc. ...see Meadows p. 109); the third (c.1885) to fit over the canvas cartridge belt over empty cartridge loops; the fourth (c. 1890) to fit over the canvas belt with the cartridge loops filled; and the fifth type (c. 1896) to fit over the woven canvas Mills belts.

There were also a number of Pattern 1881 (and some earlier patterns) modified with a belt loop that formed a skirt down the back, held to the holster body by a narrow strap, using a buckle or the strap plain and riveted or sewn to the skirt. The holster was worn butt forward on the right side, and was known as the Forsyth modification (after James W. "Tony" Forsyth). See Meadows, pp. 131.

As to who can make such holsters... uh, ah, go to www.gunfighter.com/trailrider and follow the instructions there!

The actual 1881 holsters aren't shown on the website, but just make the contact, and discuss it with the cuss who answers up!

Texas Lawdog · April 29, 2009, 03:52:31 PM

I have heard that the guy that answers the phone can make you a belt for that holster.

Sagebrush Burns · April 29, 2009, 10:10:53 PM

Trailrider leather is absolutely top notch. I speak from experience.

Texas Lawdog · April 30, 2009, 07:57:52 AM

Quality merchandise at a reasonable price.

US Scout · April 30, 2009, 08:20:00 AM

Quote from: Sagebrush Burns on April 29, 2009, 10:10:53 PM
Trailrider leather is absolutely top notch. I speak from experience.

Concur. I have several of his belts and holsters. For military leather he is the first one I think of.

Besides, Trailrider is a GAF member.

Trailrider · May 01, 2009, 10:35:26 AM

Thank you, gentlemen! If I don't answer, please leave a message. I'll get back to you ASAP. May be away from the phone between 5 and 14 May... Will check for messages, though. Depends on certain pleasant events!

Ride easy, but stay alert! Watch out for that "hawg grippe"! If you feel bad, get to the doc ASAP!

Your humble, obdt servant,

Top Kick Ken · May 01, 2009, 07:52:31 PM

Trailrider is one of the very best!

I can vouch for the quality of the workmanship and accuracy of his patterns in reference to the originals. I have a sword belt that I purchased about three or four years ago and it is still in fine shape after some pretty hard campaigning. Fine craftsmanship and quality are evident throughout.

He is the first person I think of when contemplating the purchase of a new belt or holster, especially the military pattern type holsters.

Top Kick Ken

Dr. Bob · May 02, 2009, 02:14:19 AM

You might also want to check with David Carrico who made an 1878 pattern holster for me. Has the proper arsenal stamp and is very well made. His prices are very reasonable too! Both do top notch work!!

http://www.carricoleather.com/militarybeltsholsters.html