Bar C Leather Report post Posted October 19, 2009 Just wondering what type of system you all use for measuring backs for trees. I have tried the flex-curve and ordered accordingly but it doesn't really account for rock. I ordered a ranch cutter and it actually seems to have too much rock, but then again, I'm building for a 2 yr old filly and probably shouldn't be building to custom suit her until she grows up a bit!! I've seen the fitting system you put in the oven...blah blah... think that's not going to be real accurate, heard bad things and too much shipping. I've heard of the new system by the guy out of Australia... and darned if I didn't bookmark the page and can't remember his name . Steele Saddle Trees sells their sets but really....I don't have the experience to be making such a pricey decision. Also, is there a good rule as to how much bar you should have behind a seat? This filly is a cutting bred filly and will maybe mature at 14.3 with a short back. The "rules" say I should have a 16" seat for cutting to allow for sliding around in the saddle, which I completely understand as you really can't be slamming into the cantle and swells and ride smoothly. Do you all believe in sticking to the traditional bull covered wood trees? What do you think of the Steele flex trees (the wood fork and cantle with rubber type bars) I just feel drawn to building traditional but I've also had fitting problems in the past that drive me nuts! Thanks in advance!! Natalie Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Denise Report post Posted October 19, 2009 Natalie, If you take a bit of time and check through the threads in the Choosing the Right Saddle for the Horse section and the Saddle Supplies, Tools and Trees section there is a bunch of information (especially in the 2007/2008 threads) on fitting and what people look for. Whatever system you decide you want to use, you need to work with a tree maker who is familiar with and willing to work with that system. Some, like the Steele set, are specific for their trees. As I am sure you are aware, you can't extrapolate "sizes", however they are used, from one tree maker to another. Dennis Lane is the Australian tree and saddle maker who has come up with the Equine Back Profiling System. He is a member here under his own name and here is a link to a thread about the system. http://leatherworker...?showtopic=8000 His website is www.dennislane.com.au Here is a link to what some saddle makers said on a previous thread about the flexible bars. http://leatherworker...?showtopic=4947 Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
