Original Item: One-of-a-Kind. As with much of the world, the officers of the Imperial Japanese Army would purchase their own firearms for use in the field. They often preferred smaller pistols, and might often purchase imported antiques from earlier in the 20th century. It wasn't uncommon for them to equip German Mauser C-96 Pistols, Belgian FN-1900s, German Lugers, Colt 1903 pistols, and so forth.

This is a very nice Japanese made private purchase holster, which is most likely for a commercial .30 cal / 7.65mm Luger Pistole Parabellum, a slightly smaller version of the P.08 Luger. This chambering was popular well into the 20th century, especially on the commercial market, so it's not unlikely that they found their way into Japan. We checked the holster with a replica, and it is definitely the right shape and size, and the magazine pouch fits a magazine correctly as well. The snap retained top flap is a bit strange, but apparently was used for some private purchase holsters for the Nambu and other pistols, per reference material.

Condition is quite good considering the age, with the leather body of the holster still supple. There is a tear in the side of the holster, and it does show signs of wear from service. The shoulder strap on top has unfortunately degraded and torn through, and is in delicate condition. The magazine pouch lid is a bit cracked as well, and currently there is folded up paper inside the magazine pouch to help it keep its shape, which is stuck inside at present.

A very interesting Japanese WWII holster, ready to research and display!