Vietnam-Era U.S. Leather Revolver Holster – RIA L.E.S. Marked

Description

Vietnam-Era U.S. Leather Revolver Holster – RIA L.E.S. Marked

This is an original Vietnam War-era U.S. military leather revolver holster, marked RIA / L.E.S., and intended for issue with standard .38 Special service revolvers such as the Smith & Wesson Model 10 (Victory Model) and Colt Commando. These holsters were widely used by military police, security personnel, and aircrew during the 1960s–70s, particularly as semi-automatic pistols were not yet universal across all branches.

Made of thick brown leather, this holster features a full-flap design with brass snap closure, contoured shaping, and a stitched toe plug. The reverse is clearly stamped “RIA” for Rock Island Arsenal, and “L.E.S.” for Inspector L.E. Saunders, whose initials appear on many ordnance-inspected leather goods from the Vietnam and Cold War era.

The leather remains strong with a rich, darkened patina and no softness or cracking. Stitching is tight throughout, and the brass snap functions properly. The body holds its form well and shows signs of light duty use, making it a well-preserved example. The belt loop is wide and unmodified, built to fit standard G.I. pistol or web belts.

L.E.S.-marked RIA holsters are less commonly encountered than earlier WWII models, and are increasingly sought after as Vietnam-era gear gains collector recognition. This holster is a correct fit for any U.S. revolver rig or MP impression from the Cold War period.

An original, arsenal-marked, service-used holster from America’s most turbulent military era.

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Explore related categories:
Cold War & Vietnam Gear
U.S. Military Holsters
Revolver Accessories