Mule Saddle Breeching

[rktaylor]

I'm making a breeching for a mule saddle and wondered if anyone had a pattern to share. I have a concept and an old harness to look at, but any information would help. Thanks, 

Randy

[rktaylor]

I ended up making my pattern. I need to consolidate my notes so the next one will be easier.  

Randy

[Goldshot Ron]

Randy,

I just saw your post.  The spider up on the rump would work better turned with the dees going across not parallel.  I am looking for some photos to posts that will give you some extra ideas.

Ron

[Goldshot Ron]

Randy,

Attached are 2 pages from my "pack saddle instructions".  I hope they give you some ideas.  My model for these was from a retired outfitter and guide who ran a pack string in the Sierra Nevada range, and built his own equipment.

[MikeRock]

Thank YOU!!

God bless,

Mike

[rktaylor]

Ron,

Thanks for the tips. I considered both orientations and settled on lengthwise, but am not sure why. I'll think of something to blame it on. I really appreciate your notes. I haven't typed anything yet, but I made a lot of measurements yesterday and will definitely document this project. I plan to deliver and adjust this later in the week, so we'll see how it fits. I am concerned that the straps may be too long. If so, I may just build another spider with new straps. It's all trial and error at my shop.

Randy

[Goldshot Ron]

Randy,

Too long can be shortened: too short means "damn, cut another strap".  An experience packer friend of mine prefers conways on the britchin' strap instead of roller buckles; so this is an area left to a person's choice.  I have also seen spiders with just one big ring and no leather between it and the pack animal.  Hope all is well, and that it is warming up in OK.

Ron

[toswood]

Looks pretty good, I agree though that the hip pad needs to be oriented 90 degrees. And the actual breeching strap that goes behind the legs really needs to have a good bevel because with that hard corner its going to shave the hair on the animal in about a day. And I personally would punch a few more holes to allow it to fit an even smaller animal, better too much adjustment than not enough. other than that, it looks good!

And just for reference Im not a hobbiest packer, Ive packed for commercial outfits in Montana, California, and Colorado

[rktaylor]

Ron,

Thanks for the tips. Thankfully it is warming up. I am not built for weather like we experienced.

toswood,

The breeching strap has a good, round edge and I think it's more flexible than the photo shows. However, I will tell the customer to watch it closely. This is a for a riding mule that likely won't see a lot of action, but it's worth noting. Thanks for the advice. I'll share some pictures with the mule saddled if I get a chance.

Randy

[jrdunn]

@rktaylor  Randy,  I know this is an old thread but I have a few questions.  I've noticed that some makers will cover the "rump strap" with a softer chap leather.  Since yours should have some use on it, do you think this is necessary, useful?  How is the best way to determine the length of the rump strap?  I've seem some that come around to the center of the hip while others come to center of the flank swirl.  These are probably dumb questions.  I'm not a muleskinner but it seems like my granddaughter is now.  Thanks, Jim

[rktaylor]

Jim, 

I called the buyer this morning and as expected it hasn't seen much use. This was a 'one off' project for me so I can't offer much advice. @Goldshot Ronshared his pack saddle instructions after I was done. They are now in my 'instructions folder' for future reference. He might share them with you. Let me know how it goes. 

Randy

[jrdunn]

@rktaylor Randy, Thank you!  Jim

[Goldshot Ron]

You are welcome.  I see that you and Randy are both from Oklahoma.  He's a pretty good saddle maker, and a good source of information.  Well, have fun keeping your granddaughters safe.