Golden Age of Hunting Pouches
For many years I have concentrated on 18th century shot pouches and simple mountain shot pouches. These are generally small and of simple construction. Some may have been made by harness makers but most were home made. When we get to the 19th century, the shot pouch or hunting pouch became a larger and more sophisticated affair more likely to have been professionally made. The golden age of the hunting pouch coincides with the American Fur Trade era of about 1816 to 1850.
This page features two similar Fur Trade Era hunting pouches with some sophisticated features. Both pouches feature a fringed welt and rolled bindings. The rolled bindings are along the edge of the flap and along the inside of the opening at the top of the front of the pouch. The welts go where the front and back of the pouch attach to the gusset. Both pouches have a small internal pocket and a period printed fabric lining. Additionally, the straps pass through the apron at the top of the bag and attach to the inside of the pouch. Both bags are made of 2-3 oz vegetable tanned cowhide or calfskin and 3-4 oz (new pouches have 6 oz straps) leather straps.
A Medium Single Hunting Pouch
This medium size single (one compartment) pouch is about 8″ x 10″ overall, including the fringe. The working part of the pouch is about 7″ x 7″. The strap can usually be made up to at least 60″ and is adjusted with a brass buckle. The flap has a little tooling on it. I just couldn’t help but add a little decoration of a few diagonal lines. I hope you agree that the whole bag has a very neat and professional appearance.
As are all my leather products, this pouch is hand stitched with waxed linen thread. This bag is stitched at 8 stitches per inch. I have used my standard vinegar and iron stain for a dark brown to black finish. The bag is slightly aged and distressed.
A Small Single Hunting Pouch
Shown here is a slightly smaller version of the bag above. I actually like the shape a little better.
This small single (one compartment) pouch is about 7.5″ x 8″ overall, including the fringe. The working part of the pouch is roughly 6″ x 4.5″. The main compartment is just a little bigger than my hand. The strap is up to about 55″ top of bag to top of bag and is adjusted with a brass buckle. The strap can be shortened, if necessary, for the eventual owner.
As are all my leather products, this pouch is hand stitched with waxed linen thread. This bag is stitched at 8 stitches per inch. I have used my standard vinegar and iron stain for a dark brown to black finish. The bag is slightly aged and distressed.
