South African bandoleer

[PokeyOkie]

I have an old leather bandoleer that I don't know the age of it. It's marked South Africa but no date. Looks like it's for an Enfield. Any help would be appreciated.





My guess is post WWI.

Information

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[breakeyp]

You are correct in that it is for the .303 cartridges---SMLE and No.4 rifles. The condtion leads me to believe it is WWII or later. It is a very nice find.

[gsimmons]

It looks like an M1903 bandolier. They were used for a long time. Britain, Australia, and Canada made them as well.

[PokeyOkie]

Thank you for the information! Are there any ways to bring back the rest of the markings where they've faded. How late were they manufactured and used? I would think they'd have faded away by the 70s.

Carl

[gsimmons]

Look at karkeeweb.com they have a wealth of information on M1903 bandolier equipment. It's one of my favourite sites.

[PokeyOkie]

Thank youf or the site! I originally bought it to go with my 1916 SMLE but now looking at that site, I think I need a whole set.

Looking around on Google, I found that it was made by Fraser and Sons in Cape Town and they made them through WWII.

I appreciate all the help!!!

Carl

[gsimmons]

What Price Glory makes repro M1903 equipment.

[conec]

I have a largely identical bandolier stamped with the South African U/Arrow - 1942 on it's backside. It is a little tough to see, but it is legible. I will have to go dig it out and see if it'll photograph well enough...