Original U.S. WWI M1912 Colt 1911 .45 Cavalry Swivel Leather Holster by Rock Island Arsenal - Dated 1911

Original Item: Only One Available. Before World War One, the M1912 Cavalry Swivel Holster was designed for the soon to be adopted Colt 1911 .45. It was produced from 1911-1916, although commercial models were also made well after WWI. The M1912 is identified by its extended hanger and swivel section. The holster was designed for mounted cavalry troops, so that it could still be tied to the leg while bent. A dismounted model was also produced under contract, identified by still having an extended hanger but no swivel section.

The M1912 holster can be seen in some pictures being worn by troops with the swivel section folded over the belt giving the impression of the shorter M1916 holster. This was due to problems with the swivel section, and resulted in the M1916 holster being adopted in that year. Like the M1912, the M1916 was intended for both mounted and dismounted troops. Even so, the M1912 holster still saw use throughout WWI.

This nice example is embossed U S in an oval on the flap, indicating that this was a military issue holster. The swivel shows very heavy wear with some minor tearing at the top, with heavy crazing overall. The rear of the swivel is stamped

R.I.A.
1911
T.C.C.
W.G.

This denotes 1911 manufacture by Rock Island Arsenal. Construction quality of the holster is great and it features a swivel belt hang extension. There is heavy overall wear on the holster but is still very soft and pliable. All of the rivets and snaps are intact. The weakest area is the swivel itself.

A good genuine period Model 1912 holster, just perfect for your high grade vintage Colt 1911. We have had very few of these, and they are much harder to find than the M1916 on the market.