New “Old West” Luger holster

[Levallois]

I had to have this one even though I already had a Wild West example that worked just fine. it’s a purty dang thing in great shape and nicely carved. however, this one is curious because the only markings are “LUGER” and “6” - the 1900 4 3/4- inch barrel fits just fine but it looks like there is just enough room for a 6-inch Navy. That just strikes me as weird. Anybody seen an Imperial Navy Luger in a late old west photo? I guess it’s not out of the question? Any opinions, observations, comments will be greatly appreciated.

[Dwight Gruber]

There has always been a thriving U.S. industry of swapping out P08 and Parabellum pistol barrels for different lengths. Random 6-inch barrels are not exactly common, but should be expected to be encountered. Also, check the toggle face impressions inside the holster to see if they are from dished or flat toggles.

--Dwight

[Norme]

Navy length US made holsters are scarce but hardly rare. Many US holster makers produced them starting as early as 1914. Here are a couple of examples.
Nom

[Levallois]

Dwight and Norme - I appreciate the replies. Didn't know there were some barrel changes done back in the day and that there were holsters made to accomodate them.
Here is a photo of the inside of this recently acquired holster. I don’t know how to interpret most of the marks except to think I see a round mark suggesting a flat toggle. Hopefully someone can confirm my guess or set me straight?




This a photo from the other western holster that has different marks that may suggest a dished toggle?

[Dwight Gruber]

It looks like you got it right, top flat, bottom dished. It is a useful feature to let you match up holsters with pistols.


--Dwight