Vaquero Spade Bits - History, Selection, and Controversy

The Origins and Evolution of the Vaquero Spade Bit

The vaquero spade bit has a long and storied history in the American West. This iconic piece of horse tack emerged in what is now the Southwestern United States and Northern Mexico in the 18th and 19th centuries. It was an integral part of the equipment used by the vaqueros - the early Spanish cowboys who herded cattle across the rugged landscapes of the frontier. Over time, the design was refined and popularized as an essential tool for communicating with and training horses used for cattle work.

The Rise of the Vaquero Culture

After the arrival of Spanish colonists and missionaries in areas like Texas, California, and New Mexico in the 1700s and 1800s, a distinct horse and cattle culture began to develop. The landscape and climate in these areas were well-suited for raising large herds of livestock. Ranches emerged to supply food and materials to the growing colonies.

To tend these herds, the Spanish settlers made use of mestizo and Native American cowhands, who became known as vaqueros. The word itself comes from the Spanish "vaca" meaning cow. The vaqueros adapted old Spanish equestrian traditions to the requirements of handling cattle in the American wilderness. Their horsemanship skills, colorful dress, equipment and working techniques laid the foundation for the cowboy cultures that followed.

Early Design and Function

One of the defining pieces of gear for the newly developing vaquero culture was the spade bit. This specialized mouthpiece for controlling horses evolved from Spanish and Mexican Colonial designs. It featured long, flattened shanks coming off a straight bar mouthpiece with a poker or spoon that extended up between the horse's jaws.

The spade was valued for providing excellent leverage and finesse in steering mounts during cattle work. The flared shanks allowed vaqueros to subtly direct the head with light rein pressure. The spade shape in the mouth gave clear signals to the horse about stopping, backing up, speeding up or slowing down.

These early spade bits were forged from iron in simple patterns, some curved up to exert pressure on the roof of the mouth. Rawhide reins attached to the bit shanks completed the basic equipment.

The Heyday of the Vaquero Spade Bit

In the mid to late 1800s, the design and use of the vaquero spade bit reached its peak. During this time, Spanish traditions blended with influences from Anglo settlers moving west, resulting in the flowering of the unique Californio style of horsemanship.

Spade bits became works of art, expertly handcrafted by specialized bit makers. Decorative silver inlay and engraving were added to the shanks and mouthpieces. Complex leather braided reins also came into fashion.

For the skilled vaqueros, these finely crafted spade bits enabled them to guide their horses through all the demands of working cattle with subtlety and finesse. The spade was a mark of a well-trained horse who could respond to the slightest cue from the bit.

Use and Forms Today

While the advent of modern ranching and the automobile brought an end to the classic vaquero era, their horsemanship traditions live on today. The vaquero style of riding and training is still practiced as a folk art form.

Bits based on the traditional vaquero spade design are still popular for working bridle horses and riding trained stock horses in activities like ranch roping. Enthusiasts preserve and enjoy the old Californio style.

Contemporary vaquero spade bits maintain the classic shank and mouthpiece design. Many have ornate silverwork or are forged in stainless steel for durability. Specialty makers craft custom spade bits to suit individual preferences.

The spade is not as common as it once was, but remains an iconic piece of cowboy gear and history.

Things to Look for When Buying a Vaquero Spade Bit

An authentic vaquero spade bit handcrafted in the traditional style can be a significant investment. For those looking to purchase one of these specialized bits, there are a few key considerations to keep in mind:

Quality Craftsmanship

Look for a spade bit made by a reputable maker who forges the pieces by hand. The metalwork should be smooth, clean and polished, without burrs or flaws. Quality construction is essential for the bit to function properly.

Correct Dimensions

The length of the shanks, width of the mouthpiece, diameter of the rings and size of the port should be precisely matched to your horse's mouth size and shape. Ill-fitting dimensions can make the bit uncomfortable.

Proper Materials

Spade bits are traditionally made of iron or stainless steel. Iron provides a nice weight. Stainless has more shine and won't rust. The mouthpiece may be copper-coated for softness. Silver inlays add beauty but should not interfere with function.

Balance and Action

A quality spade bit should balance and move smoothly when handled. The port should swing freely to evenly contact the tongue and roof of the mouth. The shanks should pivot cleanly in the rings.

A Reputable Dealer

Seeking out a trusted seller of high-end vaquero tack can help you select a properly made spade bit suited for your needs. Many bit makers also offer custom options. Be wary of very cheap bits, as these are often poorly crafted.

Your Horse's Experience

The vaquero spade bit is an advanced piece of equipment meant for a trained horse used to subtle rein cues. Make sure your horse understands how to respond to a spade bit before riding them in one.

With patience and care, the right spade bit can enhance communication between horse and rider. Consider all these factors to select a quality vaquero spade bit you'll treasure for years.

Famous Vaquero Spade Bit Makers

While the vaquero culture faded, the ornate spade bits associated with their graceful riding style remains an icon of the American West. Many talented bit makers have kept the tradition alive by producing high quality vaquero spade bits. Here are a few legendary names behind this unique piece of horse tack:

Edward Bohlin

Based in California in the early 1900s, Bohlin gained fame outfitting Hollywood stars like John Wayne and Gene Autry. His elaborate spade bits with sterling silver inlaid designs are museum pieces today.

Hamley & Co.

Founded in 1835, the Pendleton, Oregon based Hamley & Co. produces spade bits with their signature trademarked sail shank pattern. Their bits are treasured by collectors.

Cousins

This family operated business specializing in Californio style equipment has been handcrafting spade bits for over 50 years. Their distinctive scrolling silverwork on the shanks is instantly recognizable.

Keith Farley

A respected modern maker in California, Farley is known for his meticulously crafted reproductions of vintage spade bits as well as his own minimalist designs.

Tom Spoto

Spoto draws on old world techniques to forge his snug fitting "S" spade bits in traditional American patterns or contemporary styles. His work is highly sought after.

These are just a few examples of master craftsmen producing traditional vaquero spade bits. For many horsemen today, owning one of these bits made by a renowned maker is the ultimate symbol of horsemanship.

Selecting the Proper Vaquero Spade Bit for Your Horse

A vaquero spade bit is a specialty piece of tack requiring proper fitting and training. Here are some tips for selecting an appropriate spade bit for your horse:

Consider Your Horse's Experience

The spade bit is not for inexperienced mounts. Horses need to understand subtle rein and leg cues and have a soft mouth before using a spade.

Evaluate Their Mouth Conformation

A horse with an uneven bite or dental issues may need a custom-made bit to fit comfortably. Examine their mouth shape and structure.

Match Bit to Muzzle Size

Measure your horse's muzzle circumference. Match this to the proper mouthpiece width and shank length to maintain proper alignment.

Select Proper Port Size

The port or poker should be the right diameter to comfortably fit your horse's palate without rubbing or pinching.

Test for Tongue Relief

The mouthpiece gap should allow enough clearance for your horse's tongue to avoid pinching.

Consider Your Activities

More leverage and port action may be required for cow work than casual riding. Select bit style accordingly.

With a properly fitted vaquero spade bit and training, you and your horse can experience the refined communication these bits allow. Find the right match for maximum comfort and control.

Caring for and Maintaining a Vaquero Spade Bit

A quality vaquero spade bit represents a significant investment and preserving its look and function requires proper care. Here are some tips for cleaning and storing your spade bit:

Gentle Cleaning

Use a soft toothbrush and mild soap and water to periodically clean your bit. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasives that can damage finishes.

Remove Tarnish

For silver pieces, use a dedicated silver polish. Paste polishes or anti-tarnish strips can maintain shine between deep cleanings.

Check for Damage

Inspect for loose silver inlays, cracks or burrs. Repair as needed with professional silver soldering or metal refinishing.

Proper Storage

Keep bits clean and dry in a padded box stored out of sunlight when not in use. Never wrap leather or rawhide reins tightly around the bit.

Avoid Extreme Temperatures

Don't allow bits to overheat or freeze. Severe temperature swings can damage temper of metal parts.

Regular Equine Dentistry

Keep your horse's teeth, gums and mouth healthy to ensure bit fits comfortably. Address any points or sharp edges.

With regular care, your functional work of horse tack art will maintain its beauty and perform its dance between human and horse for many years.

The Controversy Around Vaquero Spade Bits

The vaquero spade bit has developed a controversial reputation in some equestrian circles for its potential harshness. However, when used correctly on a properly trained horse, it can be a responsive and subtle communication tool. Some key considerations around its humane use include:

Severe Bits Require Soft Hands

The spade bit's leverage can amplify any heavy-handed jerking on the reins. It should only be used by riders with soft, quiet, well-timed hands.

Proper Fit is Crucial

A spade bit must be precisely sized and adjusted to a horse's mouth for comfort. Pinching or rubbing creates pain and encouragement to evade the bit.

Requires Progressive Training

Introducting an inexperienced horse to a spade bit too fast can frighten them. Training should move gradually as the horse's understanding progresses.

Not for Every Horse or Discipline

Certain mouth conformations and high strung temperaments are unsuited for the spade. It should primarily be used for finesse riding.

Can CauseDamage if Misused

Any bit can harm a horse when used to cruelty. Spade bits must never be used for "heavy-handed" riding or severe persistent pressure.

With compassion and skill, the vaquero spade's reputation for cruelty can be overturned. Any bit is only as harsh as the hands that use it.

The Modern Use of Vaquero Style Tack

While the original cowboy culture of the vaqueros has faded into history, their distinctive style of horse tack and riding lives on. Here's a look at who is still making use of traditional vaquero equipment like the spade bit today:

Competitive Stock Horse Events

In sports like reining, cutting, roping and reined cow horse, vaquero style gear and training methods are used to produce highly skilled equine athletes.

Parade and Exhibition Groups

Performing riders often ride in ornate vaquero saddles and bridles to honor the old Californio traditions of horsemanship.

Working Ranch Hands

Some ranches, particularly in California and the Southwest, integrate vaquero techniques in their daily cattle work and pass on the time-honored gear.

Western Performance Artisans

Saddle makers, bit and spur makers, silversmiths, leatherworkers and braiders all practice their trades preserving the vaquero cultural legacy.

Casual Riders

Those who enjoy the vaquero style recreationally ride in vintage-inspired tack and uphold the classical training methods.

This blend of history and function is why vaquero gear remains relevant. The spade bit in particular is an iconic piece of the early cowboy heritage with an unbroken line to the present.

Key Takeaways on Vaquero Spade Bits

Here are some essential points to remember about the vaquero spade bit:

• Originated with early Spanish cowhands in the Americas and evolved into an emblem of the Californio bridle horse tradition.
• Distinctive design features long shanks and a straight bar or spade mouthpiece to refine communication.
• Requires soft, subtle hands and extensive training to use humanely and effectively.
• High quality versions are intricately handcrafted by master bit makers.
• Proper fit and adjustments are key to prevent injury or resistance.
• Ongoing care is needed to maintain condition and function.
• The spade bit remains popular with riders who value the vaquero heritage.
• When used correctly, it enables light and responsive communication with a horse.

The mystical dance between rider and horse via the vaquero spade bit endures as a living piece of the early American West. With knowledge and sensitivity, today's riders continue to embrace this storied tradition.

FAQs

What is the purpose of the vaquero spade bit?

The vaquero spade bit was designed to give the rider maximum subtle communication and control over a trained bridle horse when working cattle. The long shanks provide leverage, while the straight bar mouthpiece with spade-shaped port clearly signals the horse.

How is a spade bit correctly used?

A spade bit should only be used with light, precise hand movements on the reins. It requires soft hands and a horse trained to respond to very subtle cues. Any harsh jerking or constant pressure can harm the horse's mouth.

Are spade bits cruel to horses?

In the wrong hands, a spade bit can potentially be abusive due to its leverage. However, when properly fitted and used on a responsive, well-trained horse by a sensitive rider, it allows an exceptional degree of nuanced communication between horse and human.