For more than a hundred years, American cowboys have made their living through the skilled use of horse and rope. Whole libraries have been devoted to the horse, but no one, until now, has written a thorough study of the origins and evolution of ranch roping—which differs from arena roping as practiced by rodeo cowboys. Author/cowboy John Erickson studies ranch roping from every angle: its origins in the Old World; old-time loops and throws; the...

Cowboy Skills is a fascinating, practical guide to the skills that have made the cowboy famous worldwide as both an outdoorsmen and rancher. Readers can replicate outdoor living by trying a hand at rounding up cattle, breaking horses to saddle, and living off the land. Learn key skills like: handling a stampede; using the proper saddle and tack; proper ways to use a lasso and lariat; classic songs and lingo. Whether you're an avid outdoorsman or...