Old military holster ?

[dave b]

I've got 2 old 1911 holsters. One is a Boyt 44 that someone dyed the front and sides black. Were they used black in some units? Maybe dyed to conform? The other is a US, Warren Leather Goods. No date. Great shape, natural finish, but really dry. What era is it, and what should I put on it to make it almost like new? I have mink oil, boot oil , clear and brown shoe polish. I cleaned it with saddle soap, it is clean, but really dry.

[27145]

Give lexol a try. Lexol Leather Conditioner

[Texas Star]

During the 1950's, the military went from brown to black holsters and boots. Some existing holsters were dyed black, with mixed success. Sometimes, the back of the holster was left brown, to avoid staining the wearer's trousers, especially khakis. (Some guys fear new dye jobs.)

The German army also did this during WW II. But I've heard that not all units complied, especially at the higher officer ranks. If anyone knows when this happened,, please tell us.

[LoboGunLeather]

Your Boyt 44 has been explained by Texas Star above.

Warren Leather Goods was one of several contract makers during WW2. Since it is undated I think it was probably 1944 or 1945 production. Should have the steel belt hanger, brass closure stud, and either steel or copper rivets.

I would use nothing but saddle soap on it. Applying oils or modern acrylic conditioners will reduce collector value.

[Rawhide38]

I have had good results with Leather Honey on my old holsters.

[dave b]

Thanks for the info guys. Here is the Warren holster with a 1944 R Rand

[Armyphotog]

I joined the Army in 1958. When we got to boot camp it looked like there were two different Armies there. The guys getting out and rotating through were all in O.D. Uniforms, Ike Jackets, and brown leather. Those of us coming in were issued the new Green Uniforms, but brown boots and a bottle of black dye. We spent that first evening dying our boots black. Couldn't turn in until it was done. I imagine the same thing happened to the rest of the leather goods.

[2152hq]

[QUOTE=dave b;136026580]Thanks for the info guys. Here is the Warren holster with a 1944 R Rand

Looks like 'as-issued' condition. It's a collectors & display item now, not a user.
I'd keep it in the current condition and look (color) if I could.
To me it doesn't look like it needs a thing but careful storage.

[dave b]

Here is the Boyt 44 holster with another 1944 R Rand. This one is a great shooter.