Hand-Buttered Leather That Works From Day One

The Ken McNabb Diamond Sliding Ear Headstall by Weaver Leather is built for riders who want premium feel without the break-in wait. Crafted from 3/4" canyon rose harness leather that's been oiled, buttered, and hand-rubbed to a supple finish, this headstall delivers immediate comfort and clear communication from the first ride. The sliding ear design moves freely along the crownpiece to accommodate different ear shapes and poll widths without binding or pinching.

What sets this piece apart is the attention to detail — dual-side buckle adjustments ensure perfect bit balance in your horse's mouth, while hand-tied pineapple knot bit ends provide traditional security without hardware that can loosen over time. Finished with stainless steel Jeremiah Watt hardware featuring Diamond M branding, it's a minimalist design built for the long haul, whether you're working cattle or logging trail miles.

Why Riders Choose the Ken McNabb Diamond Headstall

• Ready to ride out of the box — Premium canyon rose harness leather is pre-conditioned and hand-rubbed so there's zero stiff break-in period.
• Precise bit positioning — Dual-side buckle adjustments let you center the bit perfectly in your horse's mouth for balanced, consistent cues.
• Bind-free sliding ear design — The crownpiece allows the ear loop to move freely, accommodating different head shapes without pressure points.
• Traditional craftsmanship that lasts — Hand-tied pineapple knot bit ends eliminate the need for Chicago screws or clips that can work loose.
• Ranch-ready hardware — Stainless steel Jeremiah Watt fittings with Diamond M branding resist rust and add a touch of heritage style.
• Minimalist performance design — No throatlatch means less bulk and weight — ideal for use with curb or leverage bits in refined Western disciplines.

Best For

Western riders and ranch hands looking for a lightweight, professional headstall that offers immediate comfort and precise bit control without extra hardware.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Does this headstall include a throatlatch?

No, the Ken McNabb Diamond Sliding Ear Headstall is a minimalist design without a throatlatch. This keeps the profile clean and lightweight, making it ideal for use with curb or leverage bits in refined Western riding.

Q: What size horse does this fit?

This headstall is sized for an average horse. The dual-side buckle adjustments offer a wide range of fit, so it accommodates most stock horses and ensures you can center the bit properly in your horse's mouth.

Q: Will the leather be stiff when it arrives?

Not at all. Weaver Leather oils and hand-rubs this harness leather until it's buttered and supple, so it's ready to use the day it arrives. No months of conditioning required — just slide it on and ride.

Q: Can I use this with a snaffle bit?

While you can use it with a snaffle, this sliding ear design is best suited for curb or leverage bits commonly used in Western disciplines. The hand-tied pineapple knot bit ends provide secure attachment without the need for bit loops or snaps.