Powder Flask Holster

[Lone Gunman]

I've seen numerous variations of the 'pistol flask holster' available such as:





but, despite some fairly thorough research,  I've been unsuccessful in finding any documentation or references to indicate that these actually existed or were used during the 19th century. Of course I checked Packing Iron first, but various other books specifically on percussion Colts, civil war arms, etc all made no mention of anything to hold a powder flask. I've cross posted this on the Darkside and the Leather Shop since I wasn't sure who would be more likely to have a good lead on the history of these things.

[St. George]

The Powder Flask was long used as a 'hunting' accessory, moreso than a military one.

Given the 'wastage' occurring in hapless loading under stress and susceptibility to moisture that loose powder had - the military soon figured out a sturdy combustible paper 'cartridge' and those rounds were carried in pouches fitted with drilled blocks for that purpose.

The civilian hunter used the flask/powderhorn and those were typically carried on a thong or strap - often being fitted with rings - or grooves - for same.

The smaller-sized  'pocket flask' did exist - usually and most often seen in cased sets for the handgun requiring it.

I'd venture to say that rapid reloading of percussion Colts and the like was done using combustible paper loads - as opposed to a flask and loose powder and ball, since by the time those revolvers were making their appearance - those rounds were in common use/issue.

In 1953 - Ray Riling wrote an interesting book on the subject - 'The Powder Flask Book' - and that book is regarded as 'the Bible' as far as collecting those old accouterments is concerned.

It's available - but the price is 'interesting', so I'd recommend being seated.

No mention or illustration of the cute little 'carrier', though.

Given that anything of that sort would've been carried in a 'possibles bag' or 'hunting bag'  and the fact that trouser belts weren't worn at the time - it would seem that the preferred method of carry for the original users was across the shoulder - in some manner.

Vaya,

Scouts Out!