Original Item. Only One Available. This is an original French WWI Model 1916 leather holster intended for the 7.65 mm automatic pistols generally known as the Ruby type. The distinctive asymmetrical triangular body is constructed from dark brown leather with a broad rounded flap, stitched perimeter, and a narrow leather retaining strap fastening over a metal stud on the front.

The reverse retains its substantial leather belt loop, secured with three metal rivets, together with the metal suspension fitting used to connect the holster to the French equipment system. The front flap bears a clearly impressed boxed SA marking. Beside it is a much lighter circular military acceptance stamp, with the surviving date reading 1917, placing the holster firmly within the First World War period. No complete manufacturer name can be confidently read from the remaining impression.

Condition is good overall, with age and service-related wear. The brown leather exhibits surface abrasions, creasing, scratches, and localized finish loss. The retaining strap, rear belt loop, and stitching remain largely intact, with more pronounced wear along the stitched edges. The metal fittings exhibit oxidation and areas of green verdigris.

Historical Context

When France entered the First World War in August 1914, the Model 1892 revolver was its principal regulation military handgun. The rapid expansion of the French Army, combined with the demands of modern trench warfare, soon created a serious shortage of serviceable sidearms. Officers, machine-gun crews, artillerymen, and various specialists required compact weapons that could be carried conveniently while performing duties for which a full-length rifle was impractical.

To supplement domestic production, France turned to the Spanish firearms industry, particularly the numerous manufacturers operating in and around Eibar in the Basque Country. Among the weapons acquired was the 7.65 mm Ruby automatic pistol, originally manufactured by Gabilondo y Urresti. Its relatively simple blowback mechanism, compact size, and detachable magazine made it suitable for large-scale military procurement. French demand was so extensive that production expanded to numerous Spanish subcontractors and independent manufacturers, resulting in substantial variations in workmanship, markings, and component interchangeability.

By 1916, these Spanish automatic pistols had become an established part of French military equipment. The French Army officially classified them under the designation Pistolets Automatiques de 7 millim. 65 genre "Ruby" and issued technical instructions covering their operation, disassembly, and maintenance. They fired the 7.65 mm Browning cartridge, internationally known as .32 ACP, and typically employed a nine-round detachable magazine.

The widespread introduction of these pistols also required suitable leather carrying equipment. The French Model 1916 holster was developed for the Ruby-type automatic pistol and incorporated the practical features required for daily military service. Its enclosed construction protected the weapon from the mud, rain, and dirt encountered in the trenches, while its attachment arrangements allowed the pistol to be carried securely with the soldier's personal equipment.

The Ruby and its associated holster became familiar items among French personnel during the latter half of the war. Their introduction reflected the growing importance of compact automatic handguns within an army increasingly dependent on machine guns, artillery, communications equipment, and specialized technical personnel. Such weapons provided a practical means of personal defense for soldiers whose primary duties involved operating equipment or serving in confined positions.

Following the Armistice of November 11, 1918, France retained substantial quantities of Spanish-manufactured automatic pistols. Ruby-type weapons continued to appear in French military inventories during the interwar period, extending the service life of the equipment originally acquired during the emergency procurement programs of the First World War.