Hello there!
I am new to the forums but have lurked here for a little while trying to soak up as much knowledge as I can about making a saddle.
I work on a family cattle ranch in Northern CA and have been riding Australian saddles for the last 10 years or so.
I am thinking about putting together a pretty basic western saddle for myself and don't know what I don't know.
My leather work experience is pretty minimal (repairing harness, simple saddle stitching, etc) but I have learned other skills before, so I figure I can (with help) figure this out.
I think (open to suggestions) I want to build a 1800's style western drover saddle with a half seat, Stagg rigging(?) and exposed fenders on a Cliff Wade(?) tree.
We mostly run cattle in the mountains and much of that is like trail riding and boonie-rompin' while tracking/chasing cattle. I am interested in a saddle that could rope a small calf or move a small log out of the trail.
My main concern is the construction of the seat. That looks a bit complex.
So... What should I know before I start?
Thank you all for your time,
