Item Description
Original Item: Only One Available. This wonderful khaki tan belt has rimless eagle snaps and was manufactured by the MILLS WOVEN CARTRIDGE BELT Co. of Worcester, Mass, as indicated on the brass end fittings. These 9 pocket ammunition belts with both rimless and rimmed eagle snaps were worn by the first doughboys of the AEF who arrived in France, 1917. Each pocket could hold two 5 round stripper clips of .30-06 ammo for the M-1903 Springfield Rifle, the M-1917 Enfield, or the British Short Magazine Lee Enfield No. 1 Mark III.
Early pattern belts made before 1917, such as this example, have a retaining strap in each pocket to hold one of the two 5 round stripper clips. Belts that were manufactured from 1917-1918 eliminated the straps to cut costs and simplify production. The mounted version of the M1907 belt was similar to the M1909 Cavalry belt in that it had four revolver ammunition clip pockets. Others versions also had leather fittings for a saber.
This is a very good example, with a lovely patina of age. The backs of the belt and both pouches still have a ghost of the Mills' "Cartridge" Logo Ink stamp, and the brass fittings on the connecting belt have the Mills logo, name, and WWI patent dates. There is some oxidation on the fittings. as expected on a 100 year old belt. There also is a bit of tearing and staining in areas.
In great shape and ready to display!
- This product is available for international shipping.
- Eligible for all payments - Visa, Mastercard, Discover, AMEX, Paypal & Sezzle
