jwill2868

tnawrot2, you are exactly right. That is also a baffling point with this saddle. As I have done some research, the balanced ride saddles have the "Genuine Balanced Ride" mark on the fenders.

James, that is how I was shown to tie the latigo strap. Also, I read somewhere while I was researching Monte Foreman Balanced Ride system that it is recommended to use a latigo strap on the off side in place of a billet strap. Once I did that, the saddle feels "locked on" the horse without having to cinch the girth up super tight. Thanks again for the information.

Rufusjames, thanks for the info. I did some research on Monte Foreman and found that several saddle manufacturers (Circle Y, Hereford, Tex Tan to name a few) had the Balanced Ride system available as an option for their saddles. However, I have yet to find another Billy Cook saddle with that system. On a seperate note, could you help me out with how you rig your saddle? I have tried a couple of ways of lacing the cinch strap through the openings, but I'd like to see how someone else does it. Thanks again for your help.

I found this saddle in a tack room at a horse farm while checking out other saddles to buy. I have read the history of Billy Cook and his saddlemaking in the other post and Im pretty sure this is a Simco/Longhorn version. The only markings on this saddle are the latigo holder (which is stamped Billy Cook Saddlery, Greenville, TX and the number 4701) and the saddle horn (inscribed Billy Cook Saddlery). There are no other markings on the skirt or fenders. Also, I have looked at about 1,000 pictures of Billy Cook saddles. I can not find any saddles with this style of rigging system. The saddle overall is in good shape. Solid tree, no cracking or dry rot of the leather, good fleece underneath. Just dusty from being stored. Any opinions (value, identification etc.)?