Belgian Webbing pistol holster

The Belgian Webbing pistol holster ABL from the 1950s/1960s is a collector's item from the early Cold War period. ABL stands for Armée Belge / Belgisch Leger (Belgian Army). This holster was primarily used for the famous FN Browning Hi-Power (GP35) 9mm pistol.

Features & Design

• Design Origin: The design of this canvas holster is heavily inspired by the Canadian Holster, C, No. 2, Mk. 1. In contrast, the rest of the Belgian webbing from that era was a direct copy of the British Pattern 1937 (P37) equipment.
• Layout: Beneath the large main flap, the interior features an integrated pocket for a spare magazine and a slot for the cleaning rod.
• Rear Side: Equipped with brass C-hooks to secure the holster tightly to the standard ABL P37 web belt, as well as D-rings for the shoulder straps (braces).
• Variants:
  • Khaki / Olive Drab: The standard version issued to the Army (Landmacht).
  • Blue-grey: Specifically produced for the Air Force (Force Aérienne).
  • Dark Blue / Black: Used by the former Gendarmerie (Rijkswacht).

Stamps & Mark markings

Original examples almost always feature an ink stamp on the inside of the flap or on the back. This stamp includes the letters A.B.L., the name of the Belgian manufacturer (such as W.W. - O.D.I. or De Coster), and the year of production (for example, 1952, 1960, or 1964).