A Bicolor German Holster
 

I realized that a holster which is marked 1918 is black on one side and brown on the reverse. Is this normal. Any imput appreciated! Eric

I have seen another two color Luger holster. Not sure why the different colors, may have been because the saddler didn't have enough of the same color pieces immediatly available and used the different one to complete the holster. I think it makes the holster look pretty interesting.

Joe

You maybe right! Its dated 1918 which was the end!

There was an order put out by the German army to transition to black, versus brown accoutrements. This is why you see so many brown holsters dyed black.

In this case it seems someone simply decided to dye only what would show and leave the balance brown.

Thats brillant for lack of any other! The bad part, I had it fore more than 10 and never noticed! I must pay more attention to my leather. Is there any info on its maker?

In 1916 the Imperial German Army ordered all leather gear to be dyed black. Saddlers continued to produce goods in brown. In many cases brown holsters dated 1918 show up, this is one that was dyed black. There was no need to over dye the back.

Thanks George, I love mysteries and those who solve them even more!

Eric, I would wonder if this holster would be dated 1918. It is undated for me. And because of the missing date with the marker stamp it is a first year made of Becker & Co. Usually were the Luger holsters not dated in the first year of the production- there are only a few exceptions. I also have some of this marker and they are identified as 1910 made with help of the unit stamp. It should have a brass button on the tool pouch.

You Know Your Holsters
 

Just as you said!

This was the gun that came with the holster
 

It would be nice if it were unit marked!