Original Item: Only One Available. Here we have a very nice slightly modified M1917/1942 Leather Belt Holster for the Colt or S&W M1917 .45LC Revolver. It is basically a reversed version of the WWI AEF US Army/USMC M1909 holster, which was originally designed to be carried on the right side of the waist with the gun in the "Butt Forward" position. The right hand would be used for holding a sword. With the sword basically done away with by WWII, the M1917-1942 was reversed, for right hand draw from the left hip. Please see: page #216 in Edward Scott Meadows book US Military Holsters and Pistol Cartridge Boxes.

The holster is in very good condition, with the leather still soft, and light wear around the edges. It has a clear US oval logo on the front of the flap, as is correct. It looks like the front side of the holster was dyed black at some point, which is still mostly intact. The bottom ring for the leg tie down is present, however the tie down is mostly missing, easily replaced. The small leather tie inside the belt loop to secure it from moving when mounted is missing on this example.

The holster has also been modified, with three rivets installed near the top of the belt loop, and a brass hook for a pistol belt installed as well. Aside from that, it is in great original condition, with just a bit of the stitching popping around the bottom.

The rear of the holster is maker marked and dated as follows:

This indicates 1942 manufacture by Texas Tanning & Manufacturing Co., located in Yoakum, Texas. They were a known manufacturer of various types of holsters during WWII.

A very good condition authentic example of a somewhat rare holster for your WWII collection. This would go great with an original WWII era .45 pistol.