Tuesday, February 22, 2011

Cowboy Spurs 101

By Tank McGraw


Cowboy spurs are an essential piece of cowboy gear. The very idea of the cowboy spur conjures up images of rugged cowboys and western living.

In the following article, we will explain the purpose of this western-wear equipment and offer advice for buying cowboy spurs, as well.

Typical Uses

cowboy spurs are used for different reasons like practical uses for horse riding, and, for collectible purposes and adorning purposes. The purpose for spurs in horse riding is generally for steering the horse.

Cowboys are able to dig into the sides of the horse with the rowels of the spurs, in addition to using the tack and the reins to assist in steering. Spurs are used in horse riding for horse shows, ranch work, rodeos and trail rides.

When horse riding cowboy spurs aren't in use, they could be used as decors by hanging this specific western accessory on the wall. Also, collectible spurs may also be bought as an investment because with the best care, these kinds of cowboy accessories would only increase in value.

Guide to Buying

Cowboy spurs may be bought from the producer (for a customized design), or purchased from vintage shops, farm auctions, property auctions, pawn shops, yard sales, tack shops or internet auctions.

Individuals who are purchasing cowboy spurs for horse riding have several different aspects to consider and various designs to choose from, as well. Spurs for horse riding may be decorative or plain, feature swing buttons or upturned buttons and be made with narrow or wide bands.

Moreover, the size of the rowel, kind of the rowel, shank lengths, shank curve as well as optional heel chains depend upon individual or professional preference. People who are new to horse riding and equipment might wish to purchase two or more different kinds to determine what works best.

It could be an excellent idea to purchase a few pairs to utilize for various purposes (training, exhibits or trail riding) and a different pair of spurs for every horse, too. Furthermore, you will need to take into account that spurs that are designed for girls and youth are much smaller in heel depth as well as width.

Spurs as Collectibles

For collectible purposes, western spurs are made in a variety of styles and feature the mark or brand (stamped or engraved with initials, a name or symbol) of the person who made them.

Collectible cowboy spurs increase in value with age and use; so, old unmarked spurs are really valuable. Nevertheless, these older types aren't essentially for people who are new to collecting as they are often difficult to identify.

Spurs for house adorning purposes are the simplest kind to buy. The style of ornamental cowboy spurs depends totally upon personal preference. People can purchase what is appealing to them and their very own decorating style.

Collectible cowboy spurs are really great for decorating because not only do these types of spurs make beautiful decorations, but additionally they increase in market value, also. Furthermore, decorative cowboy spurs could be bought at most tack shops or internet auctions for an affordable price.




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