Need Help With Saddle Strings

[Saddlebag]

What is the best way to cut the slits in the saddle strings? I've been using a box knife but it is slow as I have to be very careful. Surely there's a better way.

[Elton Joorisity]

http://www.ranch2arena.com/hsbtbleedr.html

[Troy Burch]

I made a slot cutter out of wide flat screw driver works great for multiple uses.

[Big Sioux Saddlery]

I think I may try the homemade screwdriver approach. I have a JW string bleeder. A homemade one can't be any worse. I've gone back to cutting the slit, or at least starting it, with a little bitty pointed blade. Don't know what it's actually called, but they come in a pack and are made to go in a handle. Then I enlarge and finish the cut with the string bleeder tool. Makes extra work, but the tool itself leaves a lot to be desired. No matter how sharp and smooth it is, it just doesn't cut well and wants to hang up. I think the old sting bleeders made years ago were probably pretty good, but they're hard to find. I'd trade my JW one for an old one:-)

[Troy Burch]

I've been intending to get some wood drill bits ( the spade kind) and make some different sizes but just haven't got around to it yet. The sharpened screw driver works good but with different sizes one whack with the mallet and theres your slit.

[bruce johnson]

String bleeders need to have an absolute fine point on the tip to start the cut. They need to start like an awl blade and the blade edge has to be really sharp. If they are dull or burred over anywhere then you are pushing too hard and they go crooked or make too large a slit. With a good edge I like them the best. I have had them from Bob Douglas, McMillen and Jeremiah Watt with equal results. One of those things I don't get real often and they go fast when I do.

Another tool that works is a large thonging awl, like a diamond awl only bigger. That was my first bleed slit cutter and they do a good job but again kind of uncommon. The problem I had with them was that the bottom edge might be cutting into the other leg of the string if I didn't pay attention.

[BondoBobCustomSaddles]

I use an awl to start the hole close to the concho or rosette, then cut to the desired length slit with a really sharp pointed knife. Takes a little time, but; results are to my liking.

Bob

[bucksnort]

This was shown to me recently & is my new favorite method. These are a cheap little tool & I did find that several brands are thick at the cutting edge with very little space between it & the hinge. These are Do IT Best Hardware brand. Simply use them to cut your slit & move along a little further if you want it longer. Cheap, simple & accurate. Hope this helps. Buck