About
Our Story
Western Buckles Co. began in a small family workshop in Guadalajara, Mexico, in 1984. What started as a grandfather's trade — carving and finishing metal by hand — became a family craft passed down across four decades. Today the brand is led by founder Mario Ortiz and operates as Buckles Western LLC in the United States, delivering the same handcrafted pieces from the U.S. to collectors nationwide.
We were never the biggest shop. We set out to be the most exacting one.
The Craft
Every pair of grips is carved, hand-engraved, and plated in-house. We build on a hand-worked 20-gauge nickel base, then finish it with 24K gold plating, silver-plated detailing, or black nickel — often combined with mother-of-pearl, crystal artisan resin, and hand-set zirconia stones.
To be clear about what we make: our finishes are plated and decorative. We do not sell solid-gold or solid-silver (sterling) grips — the beauty is in the plating, the engraving, and the finish work, done by hand on every piece.
What We Make
- Custom pistol grips — our craft. Made to fit Colt 1911 (Full-Size and Compact), Beretta 92FS / 92S, Taurus, Browning Hi-Power, CZ, Smith & Wesson, Ruger, Llama, Star, and more.
- Western belt buckles, money clips, and accessories.
From San Judas and the Virgin Mary to the Aztec Calendar, Mexican Eagle, and Skull — each design is hand-finished to order. Explore Shop by Design → · See how each piece is made →
The Promise
- Handcrafted in Mexico since 1984 — a family workshop, four decades of craft.
- 1-year manufacturer warranty on every pair.
- Free U.S. shipping on orders over $50.
- Free universal 1911 screw set included where applicable.
- Made to fit your exact pistol model. Premium pieces for collectors — not mass-produced.