Opinions sought - canvas case

[Lewisfan]

I've got a new-to-me Rusco type canvas case and am looking for feedback on originality / repro status. I did a lot of research with info provided by these boards (thanks for a great resource!). 

Areas that raise questions (for me) include the back of the snaps, the shoulder strap, what looks like shellac on the metal strap ends, overall sewing with lots of un-trimmed edges, etc. I would love for it to be authentic so I'm hoping that RKIs can review and surprise me...

No markings. It does have canvas / cotton sewn over a couple of interior space grommets (one inside the stock pouch, one inside the main body pouch). The gun section does not fit a gun with a compensator (21a case?). The cleaning rod holder seems to be canvas (vs different material than the rest of the case). 4-ea 20-rd mag pouches.  Lots of pics below.

If deemed a repro, I'm interested to learn what criteria is used to make that determination. It does not fit the description of other repro cases that I found on this site or with an online search.

[colt21a]

early paki repro.. $50 bucks back when, nothing much else to say about it. 100's of them out there.

[gijive]

Hi,

Unfortunately, the pouch you show is a reproduction.  I believe these were made in India a few years ago.  The way to tell is that the material is thinner and flimsier that originals.  The hardware is not formed properly and the padded areas inside are done very poorly.  In addition, the snap on the back is usually marked United Carr.  Early original Mills made pouches were marked with the Mills logo under the main flap.  Some early Rusco made pouches are also marked under the flap, and unmarked Rusco pouches are sewn with a darker green thread.

Edited June 4, 2024 by gijive

[ron_brock]

It’s a repo, no question about it.  Oftentimes verdegris forms around the cheap metal hardware forms from whatever corrosive crap they have in the cheap “canvas” material too.  Now, versegris can form on old stuff too, but with the cheap repo stuff you see it occur very quickly, very severe 

 

Ron

[inertord]

Unfortunately as already stated it’s a bad reproduction. When these were being sold they were listed and priced as such (Reproduction), however time erases things.  

Edited June 4, 2024 by inertord

[RoscoeTurner]

The weave of the fabric gives it away as either Indian or Pakistani.  Most likely Indian.

[TD.]

Lewisfan,

Excellent question and great answers by members of this forum. Many times it is very difficult to judge reproductions from originals, especially if you have never seen an original in person. This is one of many reasons I recommend Thompson enthusiasts attend one or both Thompson associations Shows & Shoots in Ohio each year. Once you see an original item (and maybe get to hold it) you will probably never be fooled again. Canvas is an excellent example of needing to see one or more originals. Books with pictures can really help but there is nothing like seeing an item firsthand. An original (expensive) Colt era nickel oiler is another accessory that an enthusiast really needs to see before taking a chance on buying one based on pictures, especially low-resolution pictures.  A show and shoot will be money well spent. I know you will have a fantastic time - I guarantee it!