Circle Santa Barbara Shank Bit - #5

Although circle Santa Barbara style shank bits have long existed, this is Capron’s first attempt at crafting one. When creating a bit, Capron said he often begins with a traditional foundation, then brings in ornamentation drawn from architecture, firearms and knives. Here he used fine silver and 24K gold inlay to frame the shanks, which became the anchor for the design. He then engraved the steel within those framed areas, with the top portion of the shanks allowing room for more detailed English style scrollwork. Finally, he forged a cathedral mouthpiece, a classic design that Capron said has stood the test of time.

Wilson Capron, Bit & Spur Maker (Member)
Christoval, Texas

Wilson Capron grew up in far West Texas with a family background in ranching. He graduated from Texas A&M University-Commerce in 1996 with a degree in agricultural economics with a business minor. The same year he began to apprentice under bit and spur maker Greg Darnall. He then opened Capron Bits and Spurs in 1999. Capron’s unique designs also stem from the influence of his father, artist and cowboy Mike Capron. Wilson lives in Christoval, Texas, with his wife, Katy, and daughters Macy and Emmy.