Guys in the field could have cared less about scratching thier stock. Quicker access to a full magazine. I have mounted a pouch for looks. But if left on a long time it can discolor the stock a bit. Same with leaving a muzzle cover on for an extended time. I took a drill bit and by hand slowly turned it in the snap. Removed the snap completely. Eliminating the chance of tape or something else covering the snap to move or come off. I'd rather disfigure a $20 pouch today ($3 to $5 back in the 80's) than scratch a stock worth hundreds.
The earliest 30 round pouch I have is a 1947 and I'm not sure what the earliest date would be.
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