Martin
Reiner
Reining Saddles
Manufacturer: Martin
Model: Reiner
Category: Reining Saddles
Purchase: Purchased this saddle at Equine Affaire in Columbus,Ohio Spring of 2004. Tried many different makes of reining saddles. I paid $1900.00. I aquired it because it was the best made, most comfortable saddle in comparision to Billy Cook, Dale Chavez, Circle Y, Dick Piper, Cowboy Tack, Blue Ridge, Billy Royal, Avila and a few others I cannot think of right now. I tried them all!
Likes: This saddle has the butterfly skirts, unlike the Billy Cooks with the cutout. The fenders of the Billy Cook saddle catch on the cutout when you swing/move your leg, also they will tend to flare up after awhile. Two people in my barn have the Billy Cook and that is a complaint they both have. The Martins Butterfly skirt eliminates this. This saddle is so close to the horses back, and the seat is unbelieveably comfortable.
Dislikes: Saddle came with a rear cinch. We do not use rear cinches on our reiners. However when removed the large flatD-Rings are still there. They make noise when jogging or loping by flopping on the saddle.
Quality: Excellent quality the silver is by Montana Silver, Herman Oak Leather and all Solid Stainless fittings. These saddles are made by ONE saddlemaker from start to finish, unlike the production line made saddles in the same/higher price range. That is as close to "custom" as you can get for the money and quality. This saddle had no squeaks during break-in. No cheap leather, all well oiled.
Summary: After riding in several different brands of reiners, trying out other brands at the Equine Affaire event, this Martin saddle wins hands down in comparision. I did get a discounted price due to the show versus list/retail. But that should not stop anyone wanting an excellent made and comfortable saddle. Although Martins are hard to find and/or a long wait for one to be made they are worth the ride and comfort. Try to find one to ride/sit in.
Rating: 5
Author: Ruth Ann
Date: 2004-08-04
Usefulness Rating: 4.5 out of 5.
30 reader(s) voted.
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