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| Billy Ray Klapper | |
|---|---|
| Born | April 19, 1937 Lazare, Texas, United States of America |
| Died | September 10, 2024 Pampa, Texas |
| Occupation(s) | Bit maker, Spur maker |
| Television | Yellowstone (American TV series) |
Billy Ray Klapper was a bit and spur maker and a cowboy icon known for his exceptional craftsmanship in creating many unique spurs and bits for the ranching community.
Early Life and Career
Klapper started working as a ranch hand at the Buckle L Ranch in Childress and later at the Y Ranch in Paducah, Texas. His journey as a bit and spur maker began under the mentorship of the famed Adolph Bayers, where he observed and learned the craft. He began his career as a ranch hand but transitioned to spur-making in 1966.By 1968, the demand for his work had grown significantly, leading him to pursue cowboy gearmaking full-time. Throughout his career, Klapper developed 682 spur patterns and 816 bit patterns.
Transition to Craftsman
In 1963, at the age of 25, Klapper built his first bit while working on the Y Ranch near Paducah, Texas. He was inspired to start making bits due to the long wait times for custom gear from established craftsmen like Adolph Bayers.
Influence and Techniques
Klapper was influenced by legendary craftsman Adolph Bayers, who lived in Gilliland, Texas. He adopted Bayers’ blacksmithing techniques, including: • Making spurs by hammering out one piece of steel without welding • Using pre-1949 Ford axles as raw material for spurs (though this became harder to source over time) • Employing a trip hammer to shape the steel
Full-time Craftsmanship
In 1968, Klapper decided to quit cowboying and become a full-time bit and spur maker due to high demand for his work. He set up shop near Childress, Texas, before relocating to Pampa in 1973.
Notable Designs
- The “27” bit: One of Klapper’s most popular designs, featuring elegant, snake-like curved shanks and a solid, high-ported mouthpiece
- The “299” bit: A lighter version of the “27” created for horseman Don Dodge
Reputation and Clientele
Klapper’s bits and spurs are highly regarded by working cowboys, cutting horse trainers, and collectors. Notable clients and admirers include:
- Matlock Rose (NCHA World Champion)
- Shannon Hall (cutting horse trainer)
- Carol Rose (AQHA Hall of Fame breeder)
- Boyd Rice (cutting and cow horse trainer)
Craftsmanship and Quality:
Klapper was famous for his one-piece spurs, a technique that set him apart in the industry. He was one of the few remaining craftsmen who made spurs from a single piece of steel, rather than welding pieces together. His dedication to traditional methods limited his production to approximately 200 spurs annually.
Klapper’s work is known for its:
- Functionality and “feel” that many horsemen claim is unmatched
- Durability and suitability for working cowboys
- High collectible value, with prices starting around $2,100 for a pair of spurs or a bit
Impact on the Cowboy Community:
Klapper's work was highly respected and sought after by cowboys and ranchers worldwide. His bits and spurs were known for their quality and functionality, with his "27" bit being one of his most popular designs.
Yellowstone Appearance
In his cameo on Yellowstone, Klapper played himself, appearing in a scene with the character Rip Wheeler (Cole Hauser). The scene takes place in Klapper's workshop in Pampa, Texas, where Rip goes to pick up a bit ordered by Lloyd years ago.
During this interaction, Klapper's craftsmanship is highlighted, and he gifts Rip a pair of his handmade spurs. This moment serves as a poignant passing of the torch from the old generation of cowboys to the new.
The episode ends with a tribute to Klapper, reading "In Loving Memory of Billy Klapper," honoring his contribution to Western heritage and his brief but impactful appearance on the show.
References
- ^ "Billy Klapper - 2025 Legendary Bit & Spur Maker". Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame. Retrieved 1 December 2024.
- "Obituary". Carmichael-Whatley.com. Retrieved 30 November 2024.
- ^ Cullen, Jessica (11 November 2024). "Who is Billy Klapper? Yellowstone's dedication explained". Dexerto.com. Retrieved 30 November 2024.
- ^ Grove, David (14 November 2024). "Yellowstone's Tribute to Billy Klapper, Explained". MovieWeb.com. Retrieved 30 November 2024.
- ^ Hecox, Ross (2018-05-01). "West Texas Treasure". Western Horseman. Retrieved 2024-12-01.
- Ukil, Aparna (11 November 2024). "Who Is Billy Klapper in Yellowstone and the Actor Playing Him?". Beebom.com. Retrieved 30 November 2024.
- Romano, Evan (11 November 2024). "How Yellowstone Honored Cowboy Legend Billy Klapper". MensHealth.com. Retrieved 30 November 2024.
- Rosenberg, Josh (13 November 2024). "Yellowstone Pays Tribute to a Real-Life Cowboy Billy Klapper". Esquire.com. Retrieved 30 November 2024.
- Galluci, Nicole (11 November 2024). "Who Was Billy Klapper On 'Yellowstone'? Season 5 Episode 9's Cameo And Tribute Card Explained". Decider.com. Retrieved 30 November 2024.