Floral Carving...Which version do you prefer?

[N_itis]

I was checking out the El Paso Saddlery website in my quest for a floral carved holster and I am at a loss as to which version I should get (or should I say start with)...standard or "frontier."

I want to have some nice period correct holsters to show off some of my prewar guns and possibly even some later 1960s and 1970s N frames. I am primarily interested in the 1920 "Tom Threeperson's" (especially for the 4" barreled N frames), but I think that the 1930 "Austin" might be a more authentic Texas/Southwest holster for a 5" barreled 3rd Model .44 HE or 5" barreled .38/44 HD.

Does anyone have comparison photographs of both styles of floral carving? Do you have a preference or consider one style of floral carving more authentic than the other? Are both styles period correct and it is just a matter of personal preference?

Finally, does anyone use a dedicated gunbelt? I was thinking something along the lines of #3 "Blackpowder Belt" or #150 "River Belt" (I have all but ruled out cartridge loops on the belt as it limits versatility and I want to alternate between guns in different chamberings).

My idea is to start out carrying one gun strong side and possibly add a crossdraw holster for 6" barreled K22s later on. It is just hard to get a good idea about the differences in floral carving patterns from the squares on their website.

 

[N_itis]

I was checking out the El Paso Saddlery website in my quest for a floral carved holster and I am at a loss as to which version I should get (or should I say start with)...standard or "frontier."

I want to have some nice period correct holsters to show off some of my prewar guns and possibly even some later 1960s and 1970s N frames. I am primarily interested in the 1920 "Tom Threeperson's" (especially for the 4" barreled N frames), but I think that the 1930 "Austin" might be a more authentic Texas/Southwest holster for a 5" barreled 3rd Model .44 HE or 5" barreled .38/44 HD.

Does anyone have comparison photographs of both styles of floral carving? Do you have a preference or consider one style of floral carving more authentic than the other? Are both styles period correct and it is just a matter of personal preference?

Finally, does anyone use a dedicated gunbelt? I was thinking something along the lines of #3 "Blackpowder Belt" or #150 "River Belt" (I have all but ruled out cartridge loops on the belt as it limits versatility and I want to alternate between guns in different chamberings).

My idea is to start out carrying one gun strong side and possibly add a crossdraw holster for 6" barreled K22s later on. It is just hard to get a good idea about the differences in floral carving patterns from the squares on their website.

 

[azmick]

i know nothing about period correct floral carving but i do like having a belt that will muli task. there was an old guy in town that did real nice work if you got ahold of him early enough in the day. he made me a fantastic belt to match my cyclone 111, san pedro tombstone and then a custom holster for an italian 1858 remigton. no loops just a nice, comfortable belt that works for all three. i think i gave him a six pack of coors and 10 bucks for the belt and 20 bucks for the cap and ball holster

 

[Fastsheriff]

I have an extra fancy floral carved threepersons for a 4" N frame and riverbelt, loader case and cuff case all carved the same. I wear it on special occassion and when I go to court. I think EPS does the best job of carving of anyone I have seen.

 

[GLL]

Both of these Tom Threepersons holsters are from El Paso.

Outstanding craftsmanship but you must be very patient !

Jerry

 

[bettis1]

We often talk about Tom Threepersons and his holster so I thought you might enjoy reading this account of his life and many antecdotal stories. It's rather long but it describes his Triple Lock, Colt and Winchester and the original holster made by "Tio Sam".

Bob

http://www.texancultures.utsa.edu/hiddenhistory/Pages1/coffey.htm

 

[JayCeeNC]

Great read, Bob, thanks for linking to that article.

 

[GLL]

Bob:

Thank you very much.

I really enjoy the history of that part of this country and have spent a great deal of time doing geological research down there. It is always "interesting" talking to the ranchers as they eye my truck's California license plates !

Most have always been very helpful though and allowed me access to their property. Many ask if I carry a sidearm and then with a smile remind me what a cow looks like !

I have read a bit about Tom Threepersons but Mr. Coffey's is certainly the best yet!

Jerry

 

[N_itis]

Thanks for the read, bettis1. The Institute of Texan Cultures is a great resource. Anyone planning a trip to San Antonio should consider visiting during early June when the Institute hosts the annual Texas Folklife Festival. It is a fantastic event which offers a good, fun overview of Texas history (and great food from nearly every ethnic group in the world) and it is within walking distance of the Riverwalk and the Alamo.

Anyway, back to my original question. Does anyone have a side by side comparison of El Paso Saddlery's standard floral carving and "frontier" floral carving?

 

[Tam 3]

Get a catalog from el paso. Its on slick paper and in good color.

The frontier floral is, to my eye, a little less intricate than the floral.

They can be reached at (915) 544-2233.

Regards,

Tam 3