I have a nice Lawrence #34F holster with the numbers 8 over 4 on the back.
It fits my S&W mod. 18 & 15 Combat Masterpices. The problem is there is no kind of retaining strap of any kind, and the holster never has had one. I would like to add one of some kind, but want it to be one that would have been used by Lawrence. I have one of the DVDs, sold on e-Bay for the old catalog #40 by Lawrence, but something went wrong with it and I can't get it to open on my computer. Can any of you experts on Lawrence holsters help me with suggestions on a correct style retainer? I don't like to use a holster that does not secure the gun. Thanks.

Chubbo

I certainly understand your desire for a retaining strap. We all want our hog legs secure. But that is a beautiful carved Lawrence holster. I am trying to talk you out of modifying it.

+1-I would also hate to see you modify that nice early post-war holster. Why not advertise it For Trade in the classifieds? I'll see if I have one with a safety strap when I return home next week but I bet someone has one that they'd swap for yours. You get what you want and no holsters are harmed.
Regards,
turnerriver

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turnerriver

The designs I have personally seen on Lawrence Threeperson holsters are the standard hold-down strap with snap (not an option here without dismantling holster) or a hammer thong.
The thong required one hole be punched (with a leather punch please) right beside the rear sight when holstered. A wide, heavy thong with pointed ends is then doubled over. The ends are inserted from inside to outside, leaving a leather loop inside by the hammer. The gun is holstered, the loop placed over the hammer, and the tails are pulled to snug the hammer loop. Friction holds everything tight. Very common in western style holsters. Google " hammer thong holster ". I have dealt in Lawrences for over 30 years, and a correctly installed thong would be hard to tell from factory original. Nice holster by the way.....but then, you knew that! :-). God bless, Marc

No disrespect meant to Turnerriver of course. He is a very advanced holster collector and expert. My comments were intended to be helpful in case you want to use it in the field. Best wishes, Marc

That's a very good practical idea that wouldn't look any different than an original job if done right.
Regards,
turnerriver

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turnerriver

Thanks guys, for the information. I am relatively new to collecting holsters from the great old makers. and starting to realise the importance of keeping the leather work of those makers as it was originaly made. I think that I will take the advise of some of our members, and keep the holster as it is, and enjoy it as it was intended. Thanks again.

Chubbo

This pre 29 4" wears one. It has a thong as a retention device.




Hope it helps

Ned

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Devil's afraid I'll take over.

The R on your holster is the identifier for a factory thong. Thanks for showing it.
Regards,
turnerriver

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turnerriver

I have not done much research on George Lawrence Holster's. I have looked at several, bought that one, and am just about ready to buy one for my Ruger Super Blackhawk, 4-3/4.

Ned

__________________
Devil's afraid I'll take over.