Thornhill
Pro Am 129
Close Contact Saddles
Manufacturer: Thornhill
Model: Pro Am 129
Category: Close Contact Saddles
Purchase: I bought this saddle at a local (Western) tack shop new for $450 3 years ago. It is the older model that was replaced by the 12900 Sterling, so it has no calf blocks, but otherwise looks the same as the new model. I searched for a leather saddle with a true XW tree to fit my Morgans.
Likes: This is an awesome saddle! It fits all of the horses I have tried it on- Thornhill's XW is really an XW tree, not just for a heavy thoroughbred. The leather broke in nicely, and after 3 years the grain has started to wear under the leathers and where my boots rub. The color is very even and hasn't worn anywhere and the billets are very sturdy, but not so stiff that they're hard to girth up. Panels are still holding their shape well, which is often a concern at this price point.
Dislikes: The stirrup bars are nearly impossible to use. I used to switch my leathers every few rides, but the stirrup bars on this saddle are SO tight I have to use a hoof pick or screwdriver to wedge them on. I hope I never get hung up in an iron while I'm riding!
Quality: Very well made saddle, especially for the price. Stitching is even and still tight. Nice leather, thicker but not too thick or that cheap leather that never breaks in.
Summary: Great saddle for jumping, hacking and trail riding. Rides like a much more expensive saddle. A must for those with wide horses!
Rating: 5
Author: turbosmom
Date: 2007-09-07
Usefulness Rating: 3.88889 out of 5.
27 reader(s) voted.
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