belly box/ cartridge box pattern?

[dave payne]

anybody have or know where I can find a pattern for a belly box or cartridge box (must fit in with F+I / Rev war era) I would like to try making one...

 

[ladysmithtrading]

you can find one in the rogers rangers sketch book

 

[dave payne]

thanks

 

[rice1817]

For a very authentic, yet ultra simple box, just take a slightly curved piece of wood about 3 inches high (deep), and drill a single row of 9 3/4 inch holes in it about 2.5 inches deep. Tack the belt loops to the OUTSIDE of the box (yes, that is how they were made). Tack the flap to the back of the box. Stain the wood a red color. Not a single sewing stitch to make. No need to emboss a royal cypher on the flap. This was the style of belly box that was carried by British line infantry. There is documented evidence that Washington's men used such a box at Fort Necessity. Although the ones that are covered in leather and have anti-rain gores on the side look better, they are heavier, take much longer to make, and are not as well documented.