*Swedish, 1940s, Lahti m/40 Pistol Leather Holster, Early Brass-Fittings Pattern – With Tool & Rod Compartments*
A genuine early-wartime Swedish military leather holster for the Husqvarna m/40 semi-automatic pistol (the Swedish-made Lahti), measuring approximately 29.5 cm in length and 17 cm at its widest point. Constructed in medium-brown cowhide with the classic contoured flap, brass strap plate, brass securing stud and brass rivets—features characteristic of the first pattern produced in the early 1940s. The front carries the correct triple-pouch arrangement: a long narrow pocket for the cleaning rod and two shaped compartments for the combination tool/oiler or spare magazine. Twin vertical belt loops are fitted to the rear, stitched and riveted to standard Swedish military pattern. A well-preserved, fully authentic example of the early m/40 holster type.
Historical Note: The Swedish m/40 pistol was adopted in 1940 as a domestically produced version of the celebrated Finnish Lahti L-35, admired for its rugged reliability in extreme cold. Sweden introduced a purpose-designed holster to accompany the new pistol, produced in brown leather with brass hardware throughout the early war years. These early holsters featured multiple external compartments to accommodate the distinctive Swedish cleaning rod and armourer’s tool. Although visually similar to Finnish L-35 holsters, the Swedish pattern is distinguished by its brass fittings, lighter leather, and twin belt-loop configuration. Many were carried through the Second World War and into the Cold War era, remaining in service into the 1960s before later replaced by simplified versions.
*Condition* The leather retains a rich, even brown tone with natural age darkening and service wear consistent with period use. Stitching is intact. Brass hardware shows verdigris and patination but remains functional; the closure strap shows age-softening and surface wear but remains attached. Interior surfaces exhibit the usual nap wear and light soiling from use. All three external compartments are present and correctly formed, with no structural losses. Overall, a solid and honest example of an early Swedish m/40 holster, complete in its original configuration. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
