Jack Armstrong (Lakeview) is a traditional rawhide braider particularly known for his bosal hackamores (bridles), mecates (reins), and riatas (lassoes). Dedicated to the work and lifestyle of the cowboy, he sells his finished pieces to other cowboys as well as to American and international collectors.
Bio
Jack Armstrong is a seasoned cowboy and traditional rawhide braider and teacher of the craft. While he works on ranches during the summer, Armstrong spends his winters “rawhiding” full time. He is particularly known for his bosal hackamores (bridles), mecates (reins), and riatas (lassoes)—all equipment for working cowboys. Armstrong learned his skills from braiders such as Bill Black (Lake County) as well as Traditional Cowboy Arts Association workshops and classes. Armstrong’s process is exacting, precise, and very detail-oriented. Starting with the preparing of the hide, he soaks, cleans, and stretches each one, drying it on racks during the spring and summer. He spends the winter months tempering the hide to make it pliable and easier to work. Armstrong lets each project guide his choices of which hide to use; criteria include necessary thickness and hide quality. He sells his finished pieces to working cowboys as well as to American and international collectors. Dedicated to the work and lifestyle of the cowboy, Armstrong prizes good quality traditional gear made by quality craftsmen.
