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MODEL 1917 OFFICERS POMMEL POCKET – VERY NICE
EXAMPLE TO DISPLAY ON A MODEL 1917 OFFICERS FIELD
SADDLE:
Introduced with the Model
1917 Officers Field Saddle, these pommel pockets
provided the officer with the additional storage space
to carry the necessary equipment and personal effects to
support himself and his horse in the field. While
provided in pairs – one for each side of the pommel – as
they were not connected in any way, they were easily
separated, and as is so often the case, this very nice
example survived as a single pocket.
Provided in sets of two, one for each side of the
pommel, these pockets were designed as specific “left”
or “right” – this example being a right side, or “off
side” pocket. The saddle was fitted with two sockets,
one on each side of, and just below, the crest of the
pommel which were protected by a nickel plate. The
sockets had two opposing notches which corresponded to
the two protrusions on the stud mounted on the rear of
the pommel pocket. To attach the pocket it was held
parallel to the saddle seat, the stud was fitted into
the socket, and the pocket was then rotated down to hang
in its natural position. The notches in the sockets and
the wings on the stud served to lock the pocket in
place.
This pommel pocket is in excellent condition, showing
little use, with a smooth medium russet color overall.
The pebble grain leather is pliable and retains its
bright finish overall. The buckle and billet which
secure the cover are present and fully intact. The
standing loops on the back of the pouch are likewise
intact and show no wear, weakness or stretching. The
gusset is complete and intact with none of the wear or
tearing often found in the softer gusset leather on
these pockets. The back of the pocket is stamped
“Q.M.C. JEFF. 1923” within a cartouche - indicating it
was produced at the Jeffersonville Quartermaster Depot -
and with the inspector’s initials “H.E.K.”. The pocket
is also stamped near the mounting stud with the piece
worker’s initials, “P.M.”. This pocket shows no
evidence of hard use or wear, and all of the seams and
edges are strong, intact and in full form.
Examples of the Model 1917 Officers Pommel Pockets are
not readily available on the market, and most that are
found have serious structural and condition problems due
to heavy use and poor storage. This is a very nice
example which will enhance your Model 1917 Officers
Field Saddle.
(0805) $350
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