Original Item: Only One Available. This is a great example of the standard German WWII issue heavy black soft shell flare signal pistol holster, as used throughout the war. Unlike most however, this is actually made mostly of "Prestoff", an imitation leather made from pressed paper. We rarely see these holsters intact and in such great condition. The "hinge" for the lid is a strip of leather that is riveted onto the flap and body, and the sides and bottom of the holster are also leather, as are the straps and buckle loops.

It is in excellent condition, and does not appear to have seen much use in service. The black finish is in very good condition, and there is minimal cracking and/or wear. It is maker marked under the top flap by Lederwarenwerk Curt Vogel K.G (fuq), and is dated 1941. Below this there is also a Waffenamt stamp which is no longer legible.The included cleaning rod has a steel handle, and aluminum end rammer. It has Waffenamt marking (Eagle) / WaA716 stamped into the top of the handle.

The holster is complete and fully functional, and in great shape. This would be perfect for any WWII German Flare pistol that doesn't have a nice home to live in. Ready to display!

Presstoff (also Preßstoff or Pressstoff) is the German-language term for a type of ersatz or artificial leather used during the first half of the 20th century. Made of specially layered and treated paper pulp, Presstoff was durable and easily adapted to be used in place of leather, which under wartime conditions was rationed. First invented in the 19th century, it gained its widest use in Germany during the Second World War.

Presstoff use included but was not limited to binoculars cases and straps, horse tack, bayonet frogs, equipment belts, cap visors etc. In short, Presstoff could be used in almost every application normally filled by leather, excepting items like footwear that were repeatedly subjected to flex wear and/or moisture. Under these conditions Presstoff tended to delaminate and lose cohesion.