At The Front M1916 Holster Review
Review Date:7/7/2010
Author: Chris Guska
Comparison Photos by: P.W. Browning
Comparison Photos:
Mr Browning was kind enough to take some comparison photographs of his WW2 Contract M1916 holster and my new reproduction M1916 from At the Front. The HARPHAM BROS holster, while undated was made during WW2. It is one of the lesser known manufacturers, but it is absolutely representative of the standard USGI Pattern M1916 holster. From my observations of original holsters, there are some variances amongst holsters in some small details, while other areas are 100% consistent.
The only "major flaw" in the holster that isn't a variance I've ever observed on WW1 or WW2 production holsters is the stitching around the 1910 hanger.
The ATF holster is stitched straight across, while all originals I've ever handled in 15+ years have had a gap in the stitching. Sometimes this gap in stitching is narrow, as small as 1/2 inch, but always a gap is present. If a variant did exist where the stitching was straight across the top, it wasn't common in my experience and opinion.
With that being noted - I do not believe this stitching has a negative impact on functionality or durability. It is an area that is hidden when the holster is worn, if that says enough.
There was a "minor flaw" in the stitching on the back of the holster. There is an area where it appears the sewing machine missed some stitches. The stitching blem can be seen in the photo below.
I do care that it isn't "perfect", but I don't consider this holster to be so tainted with farby and blemished stitching that it isn't useable.
Summary Pros and Cons
Pros:
Pattern is good
Materials appear to be high quality
Construction is well done and sturdy - with exception of the above noted blemished stitching
Finish is left up to you - there's no "bullshit" fake finish
Cons:
Stitching flaws
Maybe that it costs $75. I’d love to see them for sale for $50I don't have much to complain about once again. I’m happy to replace an original out of my kit with this. I do wish ATF would fix the stitching on the top and add an "original style" maker mark, without a date, much like the original photographed in this article. With a "KIRKMAN CO" stamp on them - and no date, this could easily be used for any WW1, WW2, KW or even VN impression.
This is a good holster. It could be "perfect" with a little more attention to detail and effort.
Should I have any durability problems, I'll update the article when they arise.
