Indian Wars Frazier's Cartridge Box - Shoulder Strap Pattern Rare Pattern

Description: The Frazier cartridge box was developed by J.W. Frazier on January 5, 1878. Unfortunately for him, none of the three subsequent designs that he patented were adopted by the Federal government - due chiefly to the box's inability to hold up under the physical abuse that equipment sees in the field. Nonetheless, his boxes were successfully contracted with state militias and National Guard units during the 1880's - particularly New York and Pennsylvania. The example featured here is actually a very rare pattern of the Frazier, which incorporated a leather shoulder strap instead of the much more common belt loop that we normally see. As you can see, the longer portion of the leather strap is missing, but the shorter portion with the brass buckle is still present. The original wooden cartridge bock is present, which is designed to hold 18 rounds of 50/70 Government. It seems as though the leather has shrunk a little, as the closure cannot quite reach to snap. A little working of the leather might remedy this if you so wish. The box is nicely marked as follows: "Frazier's Patent Feb. 5th 1872/Patent April 28th 1871Re-issued Mch 5th 1878" Followed by the famous McKenney & Co. of New York inspector's stamp - which likely indicates use by the New York National Guard or militia. The cartridge box flap has its original NG (National Guard) box plate present. A very tough pattern of this box to find! The box remains in good condition, showing signs of age, use and wear. Some crazing and drying of the leather is evident, but you can still operate the box as designed. Some shrinkage is evident in that the closure tab cannot quite reach to snap shut. Some areas of black finish loss is evident, as to be expected of a box that is almost 150 years old. Metal components show oxidation and verdigris. Long portion of the sling is missing. Please see the pictures for more detail. Guaranteed 100% authentic in every respect for life. Be sure to see our other listings for historical antiques and militaria. Be sure to follow our store as new inventory is added daily.

Price: 325 USD

Location: Forest, Virginia

End Time: 2025-01-06T21:13:47.000Z

Shipping Cost: 15.5 USD