Old-Style "skelton-Rigged"

[hh1302]

Saw this picture on a maker's page, and am considering one similar. Have two questions. Would it be possible for the stirrup leathers to "shift" forward without the fork cover in place? Would a saddle such as this be strong enough for occasional roping?

Thanks

[oldtimer]

The stirrup groove on the bars will restrict the stirrup leather to shift forward. You can also put a screw in front of the stirrup leathers through the skirts into the bars to be sure. I can´t see why this type of saddle wouldn´t be strong enough for occational roping, as it was used for that once upon a time in the old West.

my two cents / Knut

[brycew74]

quite a few people in southern idaho are riding saddles similar to that only more stripped down. these have only the bare essentials. most are put on a injection molded plastic wade tree and have only the rigging, stirrup leathers, and a rope strap. bucking rolls are added depending on personal preference. they are particularly useful riding colts or for guys who ride stock saddle broncs, but are comfortable to ride all day. my only suggestion on the type you were wanting to build is if you want to rope without rubber id put some mulehide on the horn to keep from burning it up. but strength should not be an issue.