a little help on some vary old holsters identifying

smalfly · August 25, 2010, 11:45 AM

found them a few years back don't a thing about them, just looking for a little help thanks Tim. I do have some more pics. they hang over the front of the saddle.

Neruda · August 31, 2010, 09:50 AM

No-one's rushing in here! I beleieve these are what are known as "pistol buckets" and were in use at least since the 18th century.

Are the bronze tubes visible on the photos old cartridge cases? Or are they tubes which would have protected a paper-wrapped charge and bullet?

smalfly · September 2, 2010, 07:52 AM

Thanks for taking the leap. The tubes are brass I think for the powder.

RJay · September 3, 2010, 04:06 PM

They look to be the type that was used to carry large bore single shot, either flintlock or percussion pistols . The bell shape allows room for both the handle/grip and lock. They were used by various foreign and US Calvary to carry two loaded handguns across the front of the saddle ( the term " horse pistols" ). Time frame would be anytime up to the late 1860/70;s. Maker? country of origin? Haven't foggiest, sorry about that.. They need some tender loving care but no neatsfoot oil.

September 2, 2010, 07:52 AM	#3
smalfly Junior Member Join Date: August 25, 2010 Posts: 2	Thanks Thanks for taking the leap. The tubes are brass I think for the powder.

August 31, 2010, 09:50 AM	#2
Neruda Member Join Date: February 28, 2006 Location: Santiago, Chile Posts: 79	No-one's rushing in here! I beleieve these are what are known as "pistol buckets" and were in use at least since the 18th century. Are the bronze tubes visible on the photos old cartridge cases? Or are they tubes which would have protected a paper-wrapped charge and bullet?

September 3, 2010, 04:06 PM	#4
RJay Senior Member Join Date: November 2, 2005 Location: Arizona Posts: 1,936	They look to be the type that was used to carry large bore single shot, either flintlock or percussion pistols . The bell shape allows room for both the handle/grip and lock. They were used by various foreign and US Calvary to carry two loaded handguns across the front of the saddle ( the term " horse pistols" ). Time frame would be anytime up to the late 1860/70;s. Maker? country of origin? Haven't foggiest, sorry about that.. They need some tender loving care but no neatsfoot oil.