Introduction

[jwwright]

Firstly, I would like to say Thank You to all who post to this forum. The wealth of information available here and shared here is remarkable. As just a bit of background........I have been a ranch cowboy, foreman, and independant rancher / horse trainer for nearly 30 years. Currently, I would suppose that professional horseman would be the most appropriate label to stick on me. I have been doing saddle repairs major and minor, as well as making small items such as headstalls, cinchas, etc for about 17 years. I am currently in the begining stages of making my first 2 complete saddles.

My question is......and I do have one.........regarding rigging hardware placement. In re-rigging or repairing riggins on saddles with a folded over style D rigging, usually full or 15/16 position, I have always installed the rigging D with a very slight tilt toward the rear of the saddle. The idea being that with a little use, stretch, etc., then the rigging D would be hanging straight down. I learned this from observing the installation of riggings on quality Texas makers I admire. However, in watching J Watt's dvd set, I notice that he has the rigging hardware tilted slightly toward the front of the saddle when he installs in to the plate rigging. He does not address the reason as to why, and I am sure there is a good reason. I have not built or replaced a plate rigging, but plan to do so in the not to distant future. I would appreciate you folks enlightening me. Many Thanks.