Revolutionizing the Bit and Spur Business with the ProtoMax

When it comes to the art and craft of making bits, spurs, and custom silver pieces, the challenges are as intricate as the designs themselves. For a bit and spur maker like Rod Teuscher, efficiency, precision, and creativity are essential to thriving in an industry where custom designs set artisans apart. Rod’s journey with the ProtoMax waterjet is a testament to how innovation can transform a business.

The Decision to Invest in ProtoMax

Running a business often involves difficult decisions, particularly when balancing costs and resources. For Rod, hiring a new employee to cut silver seemed like the logical next step to meet his growing demand. But then, a simple email about the ProtoMax waterjet changed everything.

"I saw an email about the ProtoMax. I inquired and found it would cost about what I was going to pay a silver cutter. It would pay for itself in a year, and next year it would be free. I couldn’t afford to not buy one,” Rod explained.

The ProtoMax is a small, powerful waterjet cutting machine made by OMAX Corporation, a leader in waterjet technology. It uses a high-pressure stream of water mixed with abrasive particles to cut almost any material, like metal, glass, plastic, and more, with great precision. Designed for small businesses, hobbyists, and schools, it’s easy to use, affordable, and perfect for creating detailed and custom designs.

Rod’s work is defined by custom, one-of-a-kind designs. His team frequently collaborates with customers to create pieces that are both functional and deeply personal. The ProtoMax allows him to bring even the most complex ideas to life.

This compact yet powerful waterjet machine transformed the game. It not only performed the duties of a silver cutter but also unlocked new avenues for creativity. With its capability to cut steel up to ½ inch thick, the ProtoMax allowed Rod to precisely cut spur shanks, bit sides, buckles, and conchos—all with remarkable detail.

“We had a lady come to us to order a bit. Her daughter had drawn a bit side with a concho, two roses, and stems. With a little tweaking to make it work correctly, we told her we could do it. She started to cry.”

This emotional moment underscores how the ProtoMax waterjet enables artisans to turn dreams into reality. From the smallest details to intricate customization, the machine’s precision empowers Rod to exceed customer expectations time and again.

Beyond the Box

The ProtoMax improves efficiency and fuels creativity. Rod encourages his employees to think beyond traditional boundaries when designing new products.

“It’s said in business to think outside of the box. The ProtoMax made it possible to say, ‘Box? What box?’"

One of Rod’s employees even discovered how to engrave steel with the ProtoMax, adding depth and texture to their designs. This innovative machine use has set their business apart from competitors, showcasing how technology can enhance artistry.

Productivity Unleashed

Before the ProtoMax, cutting silver and steel by hand was time-consuming. Now, tasks that once took three days can be completed in just 20 minutes.

“It would take us three days to cut what the ProtoMax can cut in 20 minutes. Previously, we had one person cutting and putting on silver. That is how much the ProtoMax has increased our productivity,” Rod shared.

The time savings have been monumental, allowing Rod to hire two additional employees to focus on applying silver. This shift boosts production and creates jobs, demonstrating how the right technology can have a positive ripple effect.

Despite the increase in productivity, Rod hasn’t noticed any significant increase in water or electricity usage. The ProtoMax’s efficient design ensures that it delivers powerful results without burdening resources, a critical consideration for small businesses.

A Tool for the Future

Rod Teuscher’s experience highlights the transformative power of the ProtoMax waterjet for small businesses. By embracing cutting-edge technology, he has elevated his craft, expanded his capabilities, and redefined what’s possible in his industry.

For artisans and makers looking to push boundaries, the ProtoMax offers more than just precision cutting—it’s a gateway to endless possibilities. Whether crafting intricate custom designs or streamlining production, this versatile waterjet machine proves that innovation is the key to growth and creativity.

To learn more about how ProtoMax can revolutionize your business, visit ProtoMax Waterjet. For a closer look at Rod Teuscher’s incredible work, check out his website at rodteuscher.com.