silly question

[merc]

here is a silly question-to some.
I got a holster for x-mas (I know it is only a reproduction)-but it is cool.
There is a piece of leather that goes into the area where the barrel goes that seems to get in the way. It prodrudes thru the front with a knot on it.
What is it for? The only thing I can see is that it is to aid in taking out the pistol. Pull on the knot and the strap inside pushes up the gun.--except it doesn't work.
\any clues??
merc