"Grape Bit" by Wilson Capron

This year not only marks the 25th anniversary TCAA exhibition, but also Capron’s 25th year in business. With the Grape Bit, he looks back to where he came from and forward to where he wants to go.

Giving a nod to his mentor, TCAA Emeritus member Greg Darnall, this bit employs Darnall Loomis shanks, while the mouthpiece, despite utilizing characteristics of the San Joaquin and cathedral mouthpieces, is a creation of forging that Capron is not sure has a specific name.

Capron decorated the Grape Bit using one of the most difficult, time-consuming techniques in engraving — high-relief sculpting — in honor of Damien Connolly, Sam Alfano and Alain Lovenberg, all of whom have influenced Capron’s style. In addition to sculpted grape leaves, the bit also boasts 24k gold grapes and a fine silver inlaid background, the perfect motif, Capron said, to share his journey and future plans.

The Traditional Cowboy Arts Exhibition will be available for viewing through November 17, 2024. Ownership of piece transfers to the buyer at time of purchase. Piece will stay on display in the exhibition until November 17, 2024. Shipment will then be arranged with the buyer and buyer is responsible for all shipping fees.

Please note: Buyers shipping or picking up in the state of Oklahoma must pay Oklahoma sales tax. Change of address post-sale may result in additional sales tax fees at buyer's expense. Sales tax exemptions must be presented at time of purchase.

To arrange for shipping, contact Whitney Batres at (405) 838-1953 or wbatres@nationalcowboymuseum.org.

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.