Second Gun and Second Holster

[Peachey Carnehan]

So I'm in the latter stages of developing and collecting a suitable uniform and accessories for the 1863-1872 era CW and IW period, particularly the latter part of that. I've got a pair of Schofields in .45 LC, a Spencer rifle in .56-50.... and unsure on shotgun. I'm covered on belts. I've got an 1887 lever shotgun that'll have to work for now, but that's not really the point of this post. Welcome to suggestions for that, though!


I've searched the forum and saw a few posts from many years ago on how folks dealt with the second pistol and holster options and still maintain some measure of 'authentic to the period' aspect. I'm inclined to get a shoulder holster from El Paso or Old West Reproductions for a shorter barreled option like a Colt conversion. I know that dual military holsters on a single belt would be an option, but it's not one that I love on aesthetics alone. Obviously SASS isn't a historical reenactment, but since I'm curious, and ceding any speed with my guns to start with, what are we thinking in 2025 with what's available, what looks best, and what I should be thinking about as I approach this game and this time/persona? 

[Coffinmaker]

  Hi Ya Peachey 

You mentioned a "Uniform" of the era, particularly the latter part.  With Uniform in mind, a "Shoulder Holster" would not have been a Uniform item.  For your Schofields, while not "exactly" uniform items, left and right strong side Slim Jims, especially California Style would be quite workable, unless you want to go with left and right Martial Flap holsters (Yuck).  There's my three cents.

The shotgun is simple, sort of.  Most common of the era would be Hammer Double 12Ga.  Nice ones aren't cheap, but Buy Once and be happy.  I happen to be a BIG fan of the Pietta 1878 Replica.  Not cheap but super well made and looks super trix.

Oh, most forgot . . . . HAVE FUN!!!

[Pitspitr]

I am reminded of a period photograph of a couple of NCO's in their private quarters smoking cigars and holding glasses of liquid refreshments, with all kinds of private purchase arms and accoutrements shown. It seems as though the picture was published both in the Time/Life series book on the soldiers and in The Army Called it Home.

[Trailrider]

For the period you are working, I seriously doubt a shoulder holster would have been used, except perhaps by a gambler. The most likely holster for a second gun would either have been a "California" (slim jim) or a military holster with the flap cut off, worn on the left side, butt to the rear (because the issue holsters were worn butt-forward on the right side.

[Peachey Carnehan]

Thanks all, I picked up a copy of Packing Iron, and a copy of The U.S. Army in the West, 1870-1880: Uniforms, Weapons, and Equipment by Douglas McChristian. Refining a couple of things- and I didn't realize that I was off on my era for Schofields. A few adjustments need to be made- I appreciate the replies!
 

[Trailrider]

While the Schofield did come in a few years later, the Army did issue some of the earlier S&W Russians. Some were even nickel plated!

Doug McChristian really knew his stuff. I knew him to be a kind and friendly gent. Sadly, he "crossed the Divide"a few years ago.

[Pitspitr]

Thanks all, I picked up a copy of Packing Iron, and a copy of The U.S. Army in the West, 1870-1880: Uniforms, Weapons, and Equipment by Douglas McChristian.

GOOD!
McChristian's US Army series is the "Bible" for serious collectors or reenactors. Army Blue and More Army Blue by Langellier are outstanding sources as well. Packing Iron is wonderful as well. I use a lot of the stuff in it as inspiration for some of the holsters I've made.

[Peachey Carnehan]

Excellent. Thank you! I've ordered the other books.

[Major 2]

this one is available