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Writer's pictureSimon Cheatham

The Cowboy's Bit & Spur Maker...

Billy Klapper was a cowboy, who made real cowboy gear for real working cowboys over more than six decades.


𝘏𝘦 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘤𝘰𝘸𝘣𝘰𝘺'𝘴 𝘣𝘪𝘵 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘴𝘱𝘶𝘳 𝘮𝘢𝘬𝘦𝘳.


Billy forged a career making the most sought after bits and spurs by those in the know. His bits had balance and to have a Klapper bit was to have an unequaled connection between horse and rider. His spurs were true one-piece spurs - intricately polished and adorned, but made to be worn on a daily basis.


In fact, it was Billy's one-piece design that was so rare in today's modern era of manufacture. Starting with Model T axles from another manufacturing era, Billy would work with a small coal forge to shape the steel - just one piece of it - into the curves of a bit or the body and shank of a spur.


Billy's pieces will go on as some of the most collected bits and spurs in ranching history. His dedication to craft and function put him in a class all his own, and he stands as inspiration for the next generation of bit and spur makers.


Billy Ray Klapper, died on Tuesday, September 10, 2024 at the age of 87, at his home in Pampa with his two daughters by his side. He was preceded in death by his wife of 48 years, Roberta Klapper.


Rest in Peace | Billy Klapper, 1937-2024. (Tribute Video)




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