briango said
James, Thanks for the saddle info..it just sits in my game room for show,paid 15 bucks at a yard sale.I have looked, but can’t find a makers mark on it…wish there was one as it would be interesting to find out more info..I know the straps are not meant for a gun, but the one on the left side just seems perfect for a right handed fellow to use like I described..I guess the point of my post was just that at least on this saddle the potential to wear away some wood relatively quickly would be great..I agree that rubbing against the bolt heads, nail heads or other fasteners would scratch or guage the wood, but years of rubbing on leather, and hand carry could even it back out and burnish it..Its all interesting speculation, so I just thought this would enlighten or further confuse….Brian

briango: The maker’s stamps are usually where you can see them (under the cantel on the back) but sometimes they are hidden. I’ve seen them up under the skirts in back, on either side and on the fender under where the seat comes down to cover the full double straps. That saddle does not look so far gone that you couldn’t bring it back a little bit, but if it’s a wall hanger (like my Texas Half Seat) then there’s no need. It can start to curl though and then it’ll never come back or hang straight. Anyway, it’s got character. I’d rather have a dark old Winchester that’s been around the horn than a shiny new one. That picture you have looks great.