Saddle Draw Down Stand Questions

[MNEELY]

Hello,

I'm planning on building a draw down stand, with the help of my husband, and I have some questions. Should the stand be completely level or should there be a slight angle in the front? I've heard that if a stand is angled too much in the front then when you set the saddle on a horse the skirts look like their going down hill. I'd like it to be as close to the average horse's back as far as the levelness or if a slight angle is needed. So it will look the same way on a horse's back as it does on stand. I've seen plans where the tree sits is just two 2"X8" boards that are just flat but in the angle for a tree to sit on. And then I've seen stands that are in the shape of a horse's back, with a curve and what not. Does it better one way or the other? I'm just not real handy as far as woodworking goes lol so I thought just the simple two 2"X8" might be the way to go. And what is the best angle to have those pieces sitting at? I would like to have it built to where I can measure off of the stand to check my rigging measurements and such. I went to saddle making school and apprenticed for awhile but I have a lot to learn and I know I always will If anyone has any advice or plans or pictures we could look at we would really appreciate it. Thanks so much for taking the time to read my post.

[kseidel]

You can build the structure square. Build up the top with felt or foam or rubber or whatever you like to make a place for the tree to sit that will be horse level. You will need to experiment with your trees and several horses to get a baseline for the level. Keith

[MNEELY]

Hi Keith,

Thanks so much for your advice. It will definitely help us with building the stand. I really appreciate it. By the way, I love your work.