Building Custom Spurs

Building custom spurs is always a challenge. Everyone has a different idea what they need in a pair of good using spurs. The pair pictured here is a California style with a 1 1/2" rowel. With the California style, there is less room for customization on the spur itself. But in turn offers a lite spur. The brand or initials can always be added to a strap concho for a very cool, custom look.
This is a pair I built for my son as a graduation gift.

I prefer to use the Texas or arena style spur. The offer a little more weight, but don't require heel chains or tie downs. The wider band gives the builder more room to be creative with brands or initials. They don't move up one the heel or require the strap to be too tight.
I do love the more traditional look of the California style, so as with everything it becomes a matter of preference.

You should know what you have in mind when you contact your custom maker. The with of band, length of shank. amount of drop in the shank, size of rowel, are some of the things they will need to know to be able to complete your order. I like to, if possible, have a picture to work from so I can get as close to what the customer wants as possible.

One thing I have enjoyed doing is matching a single spur with a missing mate. As a craftsman, it gives you an opportunity to leave your style and work in the style of someone else. It always becomes a learning experience.