M 1885 Pattern Shoemaker US Cavalry Bit Rock Island Arsenal - Bit1024 western I have seen one other

I have seen one other pair of similar wood and brass stirrups - did they come from a place or time where steel or the skills to forge it were in short supply

The front is stamped "QOG"

The ring of the girth strap has some surface rust but could be cleaned up

with only light scratching to the plating

M 1885 Pattern Shoemaker US Cavalry Bit Rock Island Arsenal - Bit1024 western I have seen one otherThis military bit is made of steel with a dark, aged patinaThe mouthpiece has a low port, making it a No. 1 model. One cheek is stamped "R. I. A.". The long curved cheeks are in a fixed position, each ends in a curb rein ring. There is a small brass US boss or badge on each cheek Dimensions : Mouthpiece 4" (12. 3cm), total cheek length ( not including curb rein rings) 8" (21. 5cm)Weight : 514g (1lb 2oz)