Guns International #: 101535607

Category - Gun Parts - Antique Pistol/Revolver - Colt Memorabilia

Category
Gun Parts - Antique Pistol/Revolver
Colt Memorabilia

Original California Gold Rush Era Holster for Model 1848 Baby Dragoon

Description:
This is an original leather holster for a Colt Model 1848 Baby Dragoon Revolver in .31 Caliber, the forerunner to the 1849 Pocket.  BTW, this holster will only except a Baby Dragoon as there is no room for the loading lever which came along later in production.  The 1848 was the original Colt Revolver that was wildly popular in the 1849 Gold Rush in California.  Note how the flap was made to expose the handle of the gun.  I've seen some photos of California Gold Rush era holsters with that basic design instead of the full flap models like the military carried.  I guess for one, it didn't rain much out West so you didn't need a large flap to keep your gun and powder dry,  and second, if you were out in the gold fields, it probably didn't hurt to let others see the handle of that gun you were packing.  It almost has the appearance of a modern shoulder holster.  The holster has a flat brass button that secure the flap and the end belt loop and end plug are both instact.  This holster has a bit of charm to it in that it was likely made on the frontier by a saddle or harness maker.  It was made for an 1848 with a 5 inch barrel, an early one with no loading lever..  All I had on hand was one with a Baby Dragoon with a 4" barrel to place it in. Aside from the 1" shorter length, it fits perfectly and you can see how the leather is a perfect fit for the trigger guard.  Overall, Very good condition.  The leather is still flexible and the stitching looks intact.  The button for securing the flap was moved up about an inch a long time ago...perhaps because the slit in the flap tore...so the edge was clipped and the button moved up a bit.  It's amazing to find a 170 year old holster like this.  Only one we've EVER SEEN for a Baby Dragoon.   

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