rwc

I have ridden and trained paso's for about 17 years and have had success with McClellan and western saddles, mostly barrel saddles. It has been my experience that "most" of the Columbian saddles are cheap junk. I'm sure there are exceptions. A lot of the show people use orthoflex but I have never been a fan. Paso's vary so much in size you'll probably just have to look around.

This is one place my Tipman works very well.

A tip from the Stolhman's book says to put the butt end of the shearling up at the front of the saddle so it won't slip on the saddle pad. It has worked for me.

I love the style of the saddle, authentic or not...I read where it originated from one of the Dorrance brothers. Wonder what his was...

I, personally, would love to see a picture of a true wade tree. Can you post one?

Here is a Wade tree that I ordered from Hadlock and Fox

I have ridden it and made it for myself to ride. I've ridden a lot of saddles and probably like it the most of any...wonder why?I train and trail ride and (personally) find tooling hard to keep clean. I mainly wanted a work saddle and yes it definetly is a learning experience. I know I can do much better next time and will get started tooling.This board has been a lot of help as has my local friend Mr. Hattely. I had nightmares of it just totally disentergrating when I stepped into the stirrup but has not as of yet and I'm confident it won't. Here's another pic.

This is my first saddle to make and first attempt at posting a picture. It's a bad shot but if successful will get another made and post.

I am finishing a wade saddle using Wickett and Craig 12 oz. leather and am very happy with it. Weight seems fine and good leather. I'll try to learn to post a pic when finished.

Has anyone else made any of these out of silverware? I assume you would cut and round off the blade and drill holes? Anyone know what size bit to use for each? It looks like a great idea.

[quote name='rwc' date='Feb 28 2008, 09:13 AM' post=

Well after getting in there I'm glad all I have to do is stitch it back and tell her to send it to the factory or sell it if possible. Everyone's right....JUNK!

Thanks Kevin, Yes that's sorta the problem with the gals saddle I asked about. She has that nylon junk for the d ring rigging that's wearing and wants it replaced with leather along with her stirrup leathers. I just wondered how it was held in place under the seat and if anyone had replaced them before. On the subject of bareback riding, Stacy Westfall does a reining demonstration bareback and bridleless that can probably be seen on youtube. The horse seems to be performing pretty well. Thanks again everyone.

Thanks anyway. Maybe after seeing how it's put together I too will refuse. I guess experience is the best teacher.

Has anyone replaced the riggings on a treeless saddle?