Chapter XXI: Buckles

The great variety of harness buckles in the market enables the harness manufacturer to procure those suited to every pattern of mounting. The illustrations in this chapter represent patterns suited to general use. In addition to these, buckles are made to match every style of mounting. An extended description is not necessary. The “Sensible” is one of the best in the market, owing to the form of the under side. It does not bend the strap as much as other patterns; it can be used with oval, “Grant,” and band mountings. The “Victoria” and “Vermont” match well with the same patterns of mountings. The band, “Bonner,” and “Square Philadelphia” are used with flat band patterns, the “West End” and other wire buckles with wire and oval terrets. Trace and collar buckles are made in as great variety as the smaller harness, the patterns being similar, but the center bar is used but little except as a trace buckle.

A buckle peculiar to this country—one in which the trace lies perfectly flat and is easily adjusted—is known as the “wedge tongue.” This was the invention of Mr. Coles. Improvements were made by various persons, until at the present time there are several varieties operating much the same as, and bearing a close resemblance to, the original. The “Coles,” Fig. 1, represents the original after having been so modified as to make it practical. The “Coles,” Fig. 2, represents the latest improvement in the way of a spring, which prevents the wedge getting out of place when the trace is not drawn up tight. The peculiarity of this buckle is in the wedge. This is provided with a tongue or spur on the under side, which sets into a hole in the trace and takes the place of the ordinary tongue; when the trace is drawn up, the wedge bears against the cross bar and holds the spur in position, and at the same time produces a pressure which relieves the strap at the hole of much of the strain which would otherwise be put upon it.

Fig. 3 shows the “Kinne.” This, when in position, bears a close resemblance to the “Cole,” but it operates somewhat differently. The cross bar is loose and the bearings upon the pier plate press against it, producing the same result as the wedge.

Fig. 4 represents the “Kinne” without loops. This is used on single harness. These buckles are very strong, and are made in all sizes from 1¼ to 2 inches.