There are many factors that go into making sure your headstall is working safely and securely the way it should says Dennis Moreland of Dennis Moreland Tack. Things such as proper fit and watching for wear and tear on your equipment will help keep your tack in great working shape. However, another important thing to look for on your headstall is how the bit ends are attached to your bit. One faulty screw or weak tie string could leave you in a situation you may not want to find yourself in. Thankfully, one safe and handy way you can make sure that doesn’t happen is using slot conchos on your headstall.
A slot concho is made of stainless steel or silver with slots cut to fit a 3/8” leather string. Slot conchos are the safest way to attach the bit end of your headstall to the bit because they won’t come untied and the strings that keep them in place are less likely to become worn than tie strings alone. They will never come unscrewed as can happen with screw conchos (also known as Chicago screws). Although slot conchos can appear difficult to remove and reattach, once you try it, you’ll find it’s actually very simple. Follow along in the video to learn about the easiest way for getting slot conchos off and back on your gear:
To Remove:
- Lift the tie string ends up and place your awl (small screw driver or lacing fid will also work) through the lowest loop on the bleed (knot woven with the tie strings).
- Continue holding the string ends up and pull the tie string nearest you completely through the bleed and all the way out.
- Lift the tie string ends all the way up again, place the awl through the remaining loop and pull the remaining string through the bleed.
- Remove the concho.
To Attach:
- Position the bit and put the tie strings evenly through the holes in the bit end of headstall. Slide the concho down the strings.
- Open the holes in the tie strings with an awl. You can rub the tie strings with saddle soap to help them slide through the holes more easily.
- Lift the tie string ends up. Working from the bottom, slide the bottom string end through the hole in the top string.
- Lift the string ends and again place the bottom string through the hole in the top string. Pull tight and smooth the strings down. Your slot concho is attached!
At Dennis Moreland Tack you have the choice of slot conchos, tie strings, or screw conchos on headstalls, but all are made with slot conchos unless otherwise requested. Slot conchos and tie strings are available as replacement parts as well. If you have any questions, please give us a call at 817-312-5305 or write [email protected].
We’re a full line tack manufacturer and we’re here to help you!
