Super scarce original holster for the Colt 1907 US Military Test pistol made by the Rock Island Arsenal in 1908, this example sent to Troop H of the 4th Calvary in Ft. Snelling, MN.

Description:

According to Edward Meadows in his milestone book "U.S. Military Holsters and Pistol Cartridge Boxes", Rock Island Arsenal only made 205 holsters in 1908 for use by US military in its testing of the Colt 1907 pistol, a key developmental pistol whose evaluation ultimately led to the selection of the Model 1911. As originally issued, the 1907 holsters had their dimensions "borrowed" from the holsters previously mated to the "Long Slide" Model 1902 pistols. After testing, a number were shortened to better fit the more compact 1907s, another example pictured in the Meadow's book on page 245. In concert with the shortening, the original plug with brass lanyard ring was often replaced as per this holster. As correct for the test holster, its flap is impressed with an oval encircled "US" and internally reinforced with a steel strip secured by three studs. This was one of 37 holsters issued to Troop H of the 4th Calvary based in Ft. Snelling, MN, as reflected by the vertically oriented "4 H 5" below the hole for the brass retaining stud. Belt loop of holster marked "ROCK ISLAND / ARSENAL / 1908 / T.C.C."

Condition:

VG as period altered, not polished, the scuffing and crazing showing no touchup. One of the rarest US military holsters, the first to transition from a left-sided crossdraw to the right hand / right sided holsters as now standard issue!