Help Me ID This Old Holster

[hardscrabble]

I'll post this request for help here because I acquired this holster with a Victory Model 38 S&W. I suspect that this holster is not in any way associated with Victory Model revolvers, but I'm not sure where else to start. If we have any gun leather experts here (or elsewhere for that matter), please let me know so that I can reach out.

It looks like it is for a 5", 5.5", perhaps a 6" revolver. It is almost identical in length with a Model of 1917 holster, perhaps not quite so roomy in the interior. It appears to be a swivel holster, although it doesn't swivel (maybe because it's old, and I don't want to force it). It is unmarked so far as I can see. Unlike US Cavalry holsters that I have seen (including a 1917 holster in my possession) it is not that cross-draw-left-handed configuration, and appears to be a straight up cross-draw-right hand.

Any help appreciated.

 

[desi2358]

Interesting old holster. Looks like some old police rigs I have seen that were used by motorcycle patrolmen. Without any readable markings it's going to be hard to find out much about it though.

 

[lamarw]

Looks like a multi purpose holster since there appears to numerous holes crudely punched for the flap to be secured based upon handgun sized.

Check SARCO and see if they have any of their old military holsters that might match it.

 

[KalamazooKid]

There definitely ARE some experts here and I’m sure they’ll be along. And you’re right, that’s a cool old rig!


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[Hondo44]

Are there any unusual markings on the Victory Model 38 that refer to Germany or Austria?

Many of these revolvers were issued to occupying police forces after the war in those countries. So it could be a foriegn made holster.

 

[Wiregrassguy]

I have a .455 HE MKII that came with this similar holster. I'm not an expert but believe that several manufacturers made holsters with very similar features.

 

[hardscrabble]

Are there any unusual markings on the Victory Model 38 that refer to Germany or Austria?

Many of these revolvers were issued to occupying police forces after the war in those countries. So it could be a foriegn made holster.

Hi, Jim. There were no import nor post-war police stamps on the revolver. I had the original receipt somewhere which indicated it was sold out of a surplus house out of CA in 1958. I bought it from the son of the original purchaser, who indicated the holster had been with the gun for as long as he could recall.

The holster does resemble some British Webley holsters I have seen, but it’s not a dead match for any of them.

Thanks.

 

[hardscrabble]

I have a .455 HE MKII that came with this similar holster. I'm not an expert but believe that several manufacturers made holsters with very similar features.

Yes, sir, that’s pretty close, and probably Britain/commonwealth mfg?

 

[Wiregrassguy]

No. It's US. My .455 was a commercial model through Shapleigh Hardware. Shipped in Dec. 1917.

 

[turnerriver]

I’m guessing that holster is from the 1930’s or ‘40’s, a number of makers offered them. It is a swivel holster and the riveted keeper on the back is for a leg strap, desi2358’s remark about a motor cycle policeman is a good possibility.
We have a Gun Leather forum where these types of questions get good consideration & feedback, I’d encourage anyone & everyone to visit now & then.
Regards,
turnerriver