Different Types Of Belt Buckles: Which One Is Right For You?
Different Types Of Belt Buckles: Which One Is Right For You?
Greetings, buckle enthusiasts!
From the humbleย prong buckleย to the flashy western-style trophy buckle, these little accessories can make a big statement about your personality and style.
Belt bucklesย are more than just a functional accessory to hold up your pants. They can be a fashion statement, a symbol of achievement, or simply a way to express your individuality.
Whether youโre a cowboy or a city slicker, thereโs a buckle out there thatโs just right for you. In this article, weโll explore some of the different types of belt buckles and what makes them unique.
Letโs get started.
HEEL BAR BUCKLES โ THE CLASSIC CHOICE
Theย heel bar buckleย is one of the most common types of belt buckles and for good reason. The bar runs across the heel of the buckle, and when you use one of these, youโre going to need to add a loop or a โbelt keeper.โ
Thatโs going to hold down the tongue of the belt or the strap. Weaver Leather Supply sells all manner of pre-made keepers, includingย decorative,ย metal, andย veg tan. For veg tan, if you dye the project, you can dye the keeper so it will be a perfect match.
There is an unlimited variety of heel bar buckles in terms of fashion, western, period, basic, utility, sizes, colors, and finishes. You can buy the buckle first and then design the belt around the buckle design. Itโs a classic choice that never goes out of style.
CENTER BAR BUCKLES โ THE BUILT-IN KEEPER
Aย center bar buckleย is another popular choice that doesnโt require a separate belt keeper.
The bar goes right across the center so you donโt need a keeper because the buckle is the keeper. You can also have aย two-pronged center barย so all you have to do is punch two oblong holes. This type of buckle is great for a clean, minimalist look.
TROPHY BUCKLES โ FLASHY & FASHION-FORWARD
If youโre looking for a more statement piece, then the trophy buckle is a great option. You donโt need an oblong or even a keeper for this buckle. Itโs a popular choice for sports teams, rodeo riders, and other organizations that want to show off their accomplishments. You can get a trophy buckle with your name, logo, or design engraved on it.
Thereโs nothing wrong with making it personal!
BUCKLE SETS โ MULTIPLE BEAUTIFUL DESIGNS
Weaver Leather Supply has multiple, beautifulย buckle setsย with many different designs. They can be customized to match your style and preferences. Buckle sets typically include a buckle, a keeper, and a tip. Some sets also includeย conchosย or other decorative elements.
These sets are a great option for those who want a coordinated look from top to bottom. Is that you?
CONWAY BUCKLES โ AN UNDERAPPRECIATED GEM
You donโt seeย Conway bucklesย often, but they have great benefits. You donโt need a keeper, oblong, screws, or snaps. All you need is a line of holes. If you have a strap that needs to be adjusted from time to time or you want to bring two straps together, this is a perfect choice.
Itโs different to master the movement on this buckle, but once you do, youโll appreciate the simplicity and versatility.
TIME TO SECURE THE BUCKLE
Let’s talk about the most underrated and often overlooked part of a belt – the buckle. Buckles are the unsung heroes that keep your pants up and add a touch of personality to your outfit. But, did you know there are different ways to secure your buckle? Here are some highly efficient ways to make your belt stand out.
- THE RIVET – Heavy-Duty HeroesIf you want a secure buckle that can withstand any adventure, rivets are your heroes.ย Double cap rivets,ย 104 tubular rivets, andย solid copperย orย solid brassย rivets and burrs make great options. Check out our full selection to add just the right touch to your project. Not only do they look great, but theyโre also durable and easy to set.
- LINE 24 SNAP – The Buckle SwapperIf you like to change your buckle often, theย line 24 snapย is the perfect option for you. It’s good for 7-8 ounce or 8-9 ounce leather and comes in multiple finishes. Swap out your buckle to match your outfit without any hassle.
- LINE 20 SNAP – The Lightweight ChampIf you have a lighter leather belt, theย line 20 snapย is the way to go. It’s perfect for a 4-5 ounce or 5-6 ounce leather and comes in multiple finishes. Keep it simple and secure with this lightweight champ.
- CHICAGO SCREW – The Strong and Easy OptionIf you want a buckle that’s strong and easy to swap out, theย Chicago screwย is your go-to option. It’s a threaded rivet with two big benefits.First, it’s easy to install and remove, so you can change your buckle with ease. Second, it’s strong enough to use on high-stress points on your leather belt. Weaver Leather Supply even adds a slot for an Allen wrench on this rivet to make installation a breeze.
SEWING – THE BELT STRENGTHENER
If you’re looking to add some extra strength to your belt, sewing is a great option. However, traditional production belts are sewn across the belt, which can weaken the belt’s strength. Instead, sew along the edges of the belt to maintain its strength. If you’re using a heel bar buckle, you’ll need to add a keeper, which can become tedious with multiple stitch lines. If you’re not feeling up to sewing or securing your buckle with rivets or snaps, a simple knot can add personality to your belt. Get creative with different knots to add some flair to your outfit.
BUCKLE UP AND GET STARTED!
Adding a new buckle to your leatherwork project is an excellent way to personalize and elevate your creation. Whether you opt for a heel bar or center bar buckle, a trophy buckle, or a Conway buckle, each option offers a unique look and functionality. Don’t be afraid to experiment and have fun with your leatherworking projects. Ultimately, the best belt buckle is the one that fits your design and style preferences.
Fortunately, there are endless possibilities!
PREMADE BELTS CAN BE PURCHASED HERE:
https://www.mtrcustomleather.com/product-category/gun-belts/
MTR offers a wide range of custom belts manufactured in USA. Each belt is custom made to order by one of our leather professionals. MTR uses only the top grade leather to construct each belt. With heavy duty nylon stitching to resist wear, tearing and dry rotting. When choosing your MTR belt you will find many options to choose from: size, color, stitching color, stiffeners, hardware type and a few more depending on the belt type that one chooses. If you do not see an option that you are needing, than please feel free to call us (336)879-2166 or email us at sales@mtrcustomleather.com. We will be glad to assist you!
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ACORN Shrunken Bison Gun Belt (GB-7)
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Bull Hide Gun Belt (GB-1)
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Cartridge Belt (GB-5)
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Casual Belts
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Custom Scalloped Design Gun Belt (GB-11)
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Resize Your MTR Belt
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Shrunken Bison Gun Belt (GB-7)
Have you lost a screw? Want a different buckle for your belt? This is the place to be. MTR Custom Leather hardware section is an easy way to replace your current or lost hardware. This section allows you to purchase screws, metal and leather washers, holster clips, tee nuts and buckles. Only the best hardware for your leather goods. Check our MTR Custom Leather hardware section.ย All hardware is usually in stock and will ship within 3 business day! Need additional hardware check out our affiliated link https://www.weaverleathersupply.com/?ref=mtrcl
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3 Piece Hardware Set (H-23)
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A-5/A-5V Replacement Straps (H-18)
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A-5/A-5V/B-4 Replacement Hardware (H-19)
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Adversary Holster Clip Only (H-14)
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Belt Buckles (H-4)
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Belt Loop Attachment
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Buckle and Screw Set (H-5)
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Chicago Screws (Set of 2) (H-2)
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CRUX CONCEALMENT SYSTEM
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Holster Clip & Hardware Set (4 piece set) (H-3)
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Holster Clip & Hardware Set (5 piece set) (H-10)
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Holster Hardware (3 piece set) (H-1)