STT: Walt, we here at South Texas Tack are very excited about your new Roper’s Collection. Tell us why you decided to collaborate with Metalab to develop this line?
Walt: For over 40 years now, I have taught people how to rope and ride in clinics all over the world and I discovered that people really don’t understand how important it is to adjust the bit to fit the horse for each level of his training. I wanted to educate ropers about the need to properly bit the horse at each stage of his development.
Metalab has a reputation for producing high quality bits that are professionally tested for superior performance. When I was approached by the Metalab Team to develop a line of bits based on my training methods, I knew they would be the perfect partner to team with for developing this line. Metalab has helped me create a comprehensive collection of bits that incorporate the training techniques that I have developed over the years.
STT: Walt, tell us about how the collection is designed to work.
Walt: The Roper’s Bit Collection is tailored to fit each horse’s age and temperament at each level of his training. It is a simple, logical system designed to help educate ropers on proper bit selection at each stage, as the horse progresses. A young horse wouldn’t need the same bit as a stronger 13-year-old horse. If you give the horse what he needs, he’ll give you what you need. Used together, the collection will efficiently move a horse through training from beginner to polished competitor.
For a detailed description of how the bits work, check out my instructional videos on Partrade Trading Company’s YouTube channel. In the videos, I provide step-by-step descriptions of the level and function of the bits and I demonstrate the proper set up and usage for the Roper’s Collection. I am pleased with the quality and performance that Metalab has designed into these bits. They are balanced for the perfect feel to work for a horse of any age and for riders of all levels.