Featured in this lot is a pair of Vintage Montana Handtooled Leather Pommel Saddle Bags with Holster, circa early to mid 1900s. Underneath the flaps, on both sides, is a pocket and a pistol holster. Saddlebags were a common accessory used on horses in the 1800s, particularly in rural and frontier areas. They were typically made of leather or canvas, and designed to be hung over the horse's saddle to provide extra storage space for supplies and equipment. The first form of gunleather used widely throughout the west was the pommel holster that was used originally by the military in Europe and then in the US colonies. These were made commercially by companies that were supplying the military and were the easiest way to carry the cumbersome pistols and needed accessories of the time. In the early 1800's frontiersmen used large-bore, single shot handguns commonly known as "horse" pistols. They used these mainly for game hunting and protection. The pommel bag holster is believed to have been developed in the California Gold Rush era where it was used by Wells Fargo in the gold fields. Attractive stamped design, supple leather, no maker's mark observed. Leather thong strap tie down on right side, left tie down missing. Buckles exhibit age patina. Remnant shadows of missing conchos imprinted on upper crossover leather. Alligatoring on leather noted, stitching appears intact throughout. Dark brown and reddish brown colouring. Measures 10.5"W x 17.5"L, weight 2lb, 14oz.

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