This is a twelve pocket vintage Chinese military ammunition bandoleer made to carry 12 full stripper clips for the Mauser Model 1896, 'Broomhandle', pistol. The large Mauser pistol was very popular in China from 1900 into the 1950s. These pistols were used by the Chinese military, war lords, pirates, etc. Bandoleers of this type enabled Chinese Mauserists to carry lots of ammunition.
This bandoleer was aquired in the early 1980s when the Chinese government first started selling antique and vintage military collectibles to Western buyers. In this period, Chinese arms and military equipment shipped to the US were genuine Chinese military surplus.
The bandoleer is in excellent condition showing little use. We believe it to be an original military issue item since it is of high quality manufacture and shows enough light leather wear, age darkening, and storage rust on its nickel plated buckle to convince us of genuine age.
Dimensions: length 53", width 4"
Shipping Details: US shipping only on this item.
