As a dedicated creator of authentic automotive and historical accessories at cardiagnostic.store, I’m excited to share my latest project: meticulously crafted M1917 tripod tool pouches. This initial batch is just the beginning, with many more exciting reproductions planned throughout the year. I’m thrilled to offer these first to our discerning community.
First up are the M1917 tripod tool pouches. We have a limited number immediately available. These are newly manufactured, professionally made using original ordnance and Colt blueprints, and informed by several original pouches, some of which were unfortunately beyond restoration. The quality of the leather and the attention to detail in these reproductions are exceptional.
Historically, these pouches, like many early 1917 accessories, were likely initially designed for the 1915 Vickers machine gun. While my expertise isn’t solely focused on Vickers systems to definitively confirm this, research suggests a strong connection. A key point of discussion during development was the leather finish. Original ordnance prints didn’t specify a finish, and existing original pouches showed varied appearances, suggesting possible preservative treatments over their 106-year lifespan. Ultimately, we opted for a natural leather finish. This allows you, the owner, the freedom to decide whether to darken, dye, or allow the leather to age naturally according to your preference. The images demonstrate how a single, light coat of neatsfoot oil can achieve a richer, darker tone. Mirroring some original pouches I’ve examined, this run is deliberately unmarked, believed to represent the earliest versions supplied by Colt.
To my knowledge, this is the first significant production run of these pouches since the conclusion of World War I. This is a personally rewarding achievement. Now, you can safeguard your valuable originals, preserving them for display while confidently using these robust reproductions at shows, during handling, or even in field use without fear of damage.
The only drawback, and it’s a significant one for me as well, is the price. Unfortunately, premium, thick leather is costly today, and the skilled labor required for their production, particularly the intricate sewn French box stitch – a nearly lost art – adds to the expense. However, I firmly believe the advantages in terms of historical accuracy, durability, and preservation outweigh this cost consideration.
The price is $75 per pouch, plus shipping calculated to your location (typically USPS priority padded flat rate, estimated at $8-10).
EDIT: (July 8, 2024) We are excited to announce the launch of our website for these and future projects! Visit us at ObsoleteOrdnance.com and save the link for future updates!
