Many of our favorite items can be made using a few different source materials, and one of the best examples here in Western circles is the belt buckle. Whether for fashion use or use within rodeo and other Western settings, belt buckles can be fashioned from several different high-quality materials - how do they differ, and which is best for you?
At A Cut Above Buckles, we're here to offer a huge selection of custom rodeo trophy buckles and other Western belt buckles, made from the finest materials. What are some of the top materials used today for these buckles, and which is ideal for your needs? This two-part blog series will take a look.
One of the best materials for those looking for an aesthetically-pleasing, easy-to-care-for buckle is stainless steel. This metal is not only durable and strong, but it also does not rust or corrode like many other types of metals. It's also relatively lightweight, so that means you can easily attach your belt buckle to a variety of different belts without worrying about the weight causing any wear or damage.
Stainless steel buckles are used in a variety of different settings, from fashion to rodeo. They are also often used in awards and trophies due to their attractive sheen and classic look. One of the great things about steel is how easy it is to polish and keep clean; a simple cloth and some metal polish can help keep your stainless steel buckles looking great for years to come.
Another great option here, one that's known for versatility and strength, is brass. Brass buckles are usually much heavier than stainless steel varieties, but they also have a greater level of detail and can be used for various decorative purposes. Like stainless steel, brass does not corrode or rust over time - it's incredibly durable and built to last.
Brass buckles often feature intricate designs or engravings, making them perfect for any occasion. They are also incredibly affordable, even when compared to stainless steel buckles; this makes them a great option if you're on a budget and want a great-looking buckle that won't break the bank.
If you do decide to go the brass route, be sure you're aware that over time, brass develops what's known as a "patina" - a darkening of the metal's surface. This natural change can be seen as attractive, but some people prefer to keep their buckles looking shiny and new, so this should be taken into consideration when making your selection.
In part two of our series, we'll look at a few additional materials that are ideal for belt buckles. Stay tuned to learn more about the material best suited for you! For more on this, or to learn about any of our Western or rodeo belt buckles, speak to our team at A Cut Above Buckles today.
