Jig for getting rigging straight

[diibbles134]

So I'm getting ready to do my first saddle and was wondering if anyone had any simple things they used to make sure both side rigging were in line with each other? If I can help it I would like not to build the one in al stolhmans boom because I don't have a way to weld the metal rods 

[gary]

Dusty Johnson shows one in one of his books that is made of clear perspex and the design is beautifully simple and it looks day to use.  Someone here should be able to help more than me.

[Ken Nelson]

Harry Adams book  Saddle Makers Shop Manual has an illustrated section on hanging riggins in saddles that is easy and you can get them spot on using his method.   I don't know of any established saddle makers that use a jig but I am sure they are out there.  There are a lot of ways to get it done correctly.  HTH.  Ken

[diibbles134]

Ok I'll take a look at that thank you, I just wanted to figure out first because I would hate to get into it only to find it won't sit properly on the horse

[Squilchuck]

Jeremiah Watt in his video also has an easy procedure for setting the rigging.  I highly recommend his video to watch in whole, then again as you do particular parts. The Harry Adams book is helpful too, especially about making patterns.  The Stohlman book is excellent, but some of his procedures, like the rigging jig, can be done more easily.  I've made three saddles. The first was Stohlman's #1 saddle made as written. Next was a mix from the above sources.  Last one I veered toward Watt's methods, especially cutting and fitting parts.  I always go back to Stohlman for his detail and comprehensive treatment of different styles.  -John

[diibbles134]

Ok cool I'll give that a look as well, any info I can get the better