"First Leather"

[WNTFW]

Inspired by the "Legging Out" thread.

Does anyone know how the term "first leather" came about? I'm sure some have never heard the term.

I have read how "Palma" rifle got it's name. Might be interesting to some of you, but y'all probably know already.

 

[Howard Roark]

While no actual trophy or medal is presented, there is an unofficial honorary
award, drolly known as “first wood” or “first leather,” for the competitor who
places first after cut-off. The terms are an ironic comment on the value of the
place just below the cut off score when compared to gold, silver, and bronze legs
earned by those above cut off.

http://www.thecmp.org/forums/showthread.php?t=7367

 

[WNTFW]

Mr. Roark,
Thank you. That is a good explanation.
I went to an EIC match where "First Leather" got a Giraud Trimmer. Needless to say I would have been happy to be first leather that day.