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MODEL 1912 SERVICE POMMEL POCKETS FOR THE
MODEL 1912 ENLISTED MAN’S TRIAL SADDLE
– EXCELLENT COMPLETE SPECIMEN IN SOLID CONDITION:
Introduced with the
Model 1912 Service or Enlisted Man’s Trial Saddle, these
Model 1912 Service Pommel Pockets were an integral part
of that innovative saddle system. As was the case with
most of the Model 1912 Horse Equipment, these Pommel
Pockets were designed especially for the Model 1912
Saddle, and all that equipment integrated to provide the
cavalry trooper with a well equipped, secure saddle
pack.
These Pommel Pockets consist of two generous sized
pockets, or bags, sewn to a base which was long enough
and contoured so as to pass over the pommel and hang
down on each side of the saddle. The pockets are sized
to accommodate specific pieces of equipment – the “near”
or left side pocket to carry the canteen with the cover
and the cup in the main compartment and a set of wire
cutters in the smaller pocket; and the “off” or right
side pocket to carry the meat can, mess utensils, and
grooming supplies. A small outside pocket was provided
on the off side for the soldier’s personal items.
While showing some
evidence of issue and use, this set of Pommel Pouches
has survived in excellent condition. The exterior
leather surfaces are bright and retain their original
finish. All of the components are present and intact,
all of the seams are intact, the straps and billets are
supple and full length, and the buckles, leather slot
keys, and keepers are present. Of special note is the
presence of the full length attaching straps which were
used for securing the pockets to the saddle – normally
missing from surviving specimens. The leather has a
pleasant medium brown color and it is not oil soaked or
showing any weakness. The center section, also known as
the “yoke” or “seat”, which passes over the pommel of
the saddle is still strong and does not show any
weakness. One side of the yoke is stamped “ROCK ISLAND
ARSENAL 1915”, indicating a desirable early production,
and the other side of the yoke is stamped “1 D 55”,
indicating this set was issued within the First Regiment
of Cavalry, Troop D, and was identified to soldier
number 55 on the issue rolls. In addition to the
standard slots provided by the original design for
mounting the pockets on the box rings on the pommel of
the saddles, the soldier who used this set carefully cut
an additional set of slots for adjusting the position of
the pockets as they set on the saddle, likely making for
a more comfortable seat for the soldier. This was well
done and in no way weakens the yoke. In the overall
scheme of rarity and condition, I would rate this set
well above average and far better than is normally
encountered.
An added value, the Meat
Can Pouch is present in the off side pocket where it
buttons to the base. Made of lightweight canvas, and
shaped to match the shape of the pocket, this pouch held
not only the meat can, but it is also fitted with two
pockets which held and protected the mess fork and
knife. The pouch is full form, however it does show
some wear on the lower edge where it wore against the
interior of the pocket. Otherwise, all the seams and
utensil pockets are intact.
One of the key elements of the
Model 1912 Service Saddle, this set of Model 1912 Pommel
Pockets is a significant addition to any U.S. cavalry
collection, particularly to complete your saddle, and is
of such quality that there would few opportunities to
find a better example.
SOLD
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