Vintage Charro Saddle

[Wenny]

Found this diamond in the rough in the back corner of a junk shop, behind a box of cookbooks with a moose head on top of it. Had about a half-inch of dust on it and I got it for cheap because the seller thought it was a western saddle with parts missing.

After a good cleaning, oiling, and conditioning I've got as pretty an example of a Mexican charro silla as you could ask for. It's not terrifically fancy, but the buckstitching and those monkeynose tapaderos make it a very attractive piece. Based on the style and comparison to similar saddles, I believe it to date from the 1970s. Just thought y'all might be interested in seeing a little something different.

Here's before and after pics for ya, plus a detail of the skirt pockets and a shot of the stirrups after I added treads and wear leathers. I replaced the traditional felt padding and added a worked border of brown and white wool that I think really makes it pop. I also carved a stamp to make the matching off billet. All in all a very satisfying job, and I'm pleased with the results.

[Goldshot Ron]

Thanks for sharing. The end results looks good.