Saddle Screw At Horn Bar Connection?

[GrampaJoel]

I have been wondering why a screw is placed at the saddle horn/bar intersection.

I mean, I do know why a scerw is placed there, but,, I just wonder why a concho isn't put there like at the other places of attachment?

A screw just seems out of place to me when there are conchos at the other attachment spots.

Thanks

Joel

[bruce johnson]

On some I put a 1/2" concho there. Depends on what the customer wants. It is sure easier to put a screw and washer in there and get it tighter more easily than some conchos.

[Shelly]

Some saddlemakers don't put a screw or a concho there - I think they possibly feel it allows more forward freedom for the fenders, but I'd defer to the others here that may have another explanation. I personally put a screw and washer there, to keep the seat nice and tight around the swell, and sometimes will put a silver concho there if the customer wants to pay for it, especially if they've decided to put lots of silver on the saddle, it makes a nice touch.

[BondoBobCustomSaddles]

Joel, personally I put an attachment there on every saddle I make. Generally, it's a screw and eyelet, however some customers want a concho there. Just a matter of taste and preference. Here are a coule of pics of saddles I made for a husband and wife. Each wanted different things, as you can see, even though the saddle s were built on the same exact style of tree.

Bob

[GrampaJoel]

bruce johnson

On some I put a 1/2" concho there. Depends on what the customer wants. It is sure easier to put a screw and washer in there and get it tighter more easily than some conchos.

Well Bruce, I can surely see your point . Very logical and practical also. I like that.

I guess I am really thinking in an aesthetic sort of view.

Perhaps plain wood screws and washers are used because there aren't any fancy wood screws and washers to use.

I can also see the concho being used for the aesthetic value. But it does seem that I see a lot more saddles with the screws than conchos.

I guess, I just wondered if there was a common reason for doing it one way or the other.

Such as a regular concho being in the way of the riders leg or inhibiting the stirrup/fender movement, or something like that. I believe Shelly alluded to that in her reply. Thank you Shelly

Bruce 's reply was a practical one no doubt. Straight up and to the point. I like that.

Bob, thanks for the pictures. It helps to be able to see things sometimes.

It seems like the more I do the more I have questions about what I'm doing.

Thanks for the fine replies folks. I appreciate you helping me with my saddle building education.

Joel