Just to clarify... the tanker's holster is an adaptation of the original early model open-top holster for the Enfield or Webley .380 revolvers. They also worked with the S&W 38-200 revolver which saw much wider service with Canadians in WW2. The upper loop in the holster was strapped around the belt, allowing the pistol and holster to ride on the thigh, with a strap to hold it there.
I don't know how prevalent in service they were, given that early on in Normandy at least, officers tended to put their pistols in their pockets (and hide their binoculars) in order to not make easy targets for enemy snipers. The holsters now, while once relatively easy to find, are worth just about what the seller is asking, especially if they are original with the appropriate straps.
Oh yes, and any of the Commonwealth-issue revolvers is called a "Pistol, No.X Mk.X" even if it was a revolver. makes things frightfully complicated, but then again, the English are damned good at that. Perhaps that's why they haven't been invaded in the last millenium....
