The parts of a cowboy spur

A basic pair of cowboy spurs are made of metal, usually iron, and can be identified by different names or terms for each part of the spur. Although the spur is mostly one solid piece, each part has a name and this information can be helpful when trying to identify your spurs or purchasing them at an online auction.

The largest part of the spur is the heel band or yoke. This is the U-shaped piece of the spur that curves around the back of the boot so that the spur can stick out of the heel. The yoke (sometimes also known as the shank) should fit snug against the boot and then be held in place with a leather strap that goes across the arch of the foot or 2 chains, one under the boot and one over the top. At the ends of the yoke. There will be a button on each side where the strap can be attached and tightened.

The part that sticks out at the back is called the Neck or Stem. This part of the spur is usually straight, but there are gooseneck spurs where the neck is more curved. The neck is used to hold the next part of the spur and is primarily for digging into the steed to gain control.

The wheel, disk, or star at the end of the Neck is called a Rowel. This circular shaped piece of metal is usually made of iron and is attached to the neck in the middle, allowing it to rotate. The Rowel is also usually pointed in some way that will increase the rider’s ability to lead their horse, but without causing too much pain or damage at the same time. The Rowel can be of a simple flat disk design or a many-pointed star shape, depending on the age of the spurs and also where they were made. Spanish and Mexican spurs prefer a larger, fancier rowel, while a set of English spurs have no rowel at all.

There are also spurs known as Jingle Bob spurs in which the center hole of the row is larger than the pin, causing it to rattle and “jingle” while in use. Additionally, Jingle Bob Spurs may have a small chain or dangling element that rubs against the spokes of the Rowel to make the jingle.