#49 Sliester Mechanical Hackamore

This is a classic Sliester mechanical hackamore, built on the company’s trademark lightweight cast-aluminum shanks and paired with the original stitched leather noseband. Sliester’s mechanical hackamores earned a strong following in the West because they offered a clean, consistent signal without the bulk or over-severity of many rival designs. Riders appreciated their balance, durability, and the way Sliester engineered leverage without creating a harsh feel.

The shanks on this piece retain the stamped “SLIESTER BM” marking, confirming it as an authentic Sliester bit rather than one of the later generics inspired by their patterns. The leverage arms and rein slots show the smooth, functional contour Sliester was known for, while the curb chain appears original, showing honest oxidation from age and long storage.

This hackamore comes from the personal collection of NRCHA Hall of Famer Jim Paul Sr., who was known for having a large number of Sliester pieces—both complete bits and raw components. He valued Sliester mouthpieces and hackamore shanks because they were consistent, reliable, and easy to modify or repurpose. Jim often reworked bits by combining Sliester components with his own shanks or custom setups, but this piece remains in its original factory form.

Overall, the hackamore displays appropriate patina on the aluminum and hardware but remains structurally sound. These earlier Sliester mechanical hackamores have become increasingly collectible, especially ones still retaining their original leather and unaltered proportions.

Key Features

• Maker: Sliester (marked “SLIESTER BM”)
• Style: Mechanical hackamore
• Shanks: Cast aluminum, classic Sliester contour
• Noseband: Original stitched leather
• Curb: Linked chain with oxidation
• Design Notes: Lightweight, balanced leverage; early Sliester engineering
• Provenance: From Jim Paul Sr.’s personal tack collection

Condition

• Aluminum surfaces show patina and storage wear
• Leather noseband is aged but intact
• Curb chain oxidized but functional
• No structural issues; an excellent example of an early Sliester hackamore