Hud - Elk hide rather then cowhide replaced the suede. Never had a DNA analysis on any of mine to really be able to state with certainty that they are elk hide, just going by the catalog statements. Would be interested to hear if anyone is a leather expert and can shed light on if the leather is really elk hide. Frankly, I have always wondered if it really was elk hide. I may have to take a quiver to some leather shops. They already know me as the crazy guy who brings in those old bows trying the match the leather on them.
Elk hide last appeared in the 1970 catalog. From 1971 to 1974 the design changed and they were made of vinyl, I don't collect or use vinyl stuff so have no first hand knowledge of it.
Trap - The very first suede model had no rivets in the hood to the hold the oval shaping spring in place, it was sewn above and below the spring.
These are the 4 models that I have shown in the book right now. There may be other factory variations that I am not aware of. Have seen several other variations that were obviously modified by bowmen.
St. Charles Suede, Sewn Spring
St. Charles Suede, Riveted Spring
St. Charles Elk Hide, Riveted Spring
St. Charles Elk Hide, Riveted Spring, Chest Thong w/ D-Ring
That whole thong thing in the catalogs was innocent enough given the era, but given the connotation of the word today, that may be changed to "Chest Strap w/ D-Ring" in the book. If possible, usually try to use the manufacturer's printed descriptive words, but this will probably be one of those exceptions.
The leather models of the St. Charles are great quivers for certain hunting situations. Used original St. Charles for a couple of years and also used my own handmade version for a number of years.