Original Item. Only One Available. This is a very nice original U.S. WWII M3 leather shoulder holster manufactured by Enger-Kress in 1944 for the Colt M1911 and M1911A1 .45 caliber pistol. Commonly known among collectors as the “Tanker” holster, this heavily service worn example retains its complete shoulder suspension arrangement, clearly stamped maker and date markings, oval U.S. property mark, and the repeated laundry number M5151.

The M3 shoulder holster was adopted during WWII as a practical means of carrying the M1911 pistol where a conventional hip holster could be inconvenient. It became particularly associated with armored vehicle and aircraft crews, whose confined working spaces made a belt mounted pistol difficult to access. The pattern was also used by officers and other personnel who preferred its secure, close fitting position beneath the arm.

Original M3's were made in plain, "natural" leather, as they age they can darken through exposure to oil, dirt, and sweat that turns holsters a russet brown color. This example is service-worn and is a bit darkened from its issue color.

The leather is still soft and pliable, though there is definitely wear and staining. This is especially noticeable on the shoulder strap, which has a lot of leather crazing as well. There is also a small amount of verdigris on the metal fittings and snaps, giving the holster a great patina.

The holster is embossed on the front U.S. in an oval, meaning it was military issues (not civilian) and it is nicely stamped on the reverse:

U.S.
ENGER-KRESS
1944

The front and back of the holster and inscribed with a laundry number, M5151.

The complete U.S. / ENGER-KRESS / 1944 marking, oval military property stamp, repeated M5151 laundry number, and retained shoulder suspension give this holster a strong documentary basis. Its darkened surface, crazed strap, staining, and verdigris are significant elements of its condition and illustrate the effects of extended wear on natural finished military leather. It would be appropriate for a Colt M1911 or M1911A1 display or a collection centered on Army aviation equipment, WWII sidearms, or identified personal field equipment.