Tack & Leather Guides
Straight answers from a working leather maker — how to size, fit, clean and choose Western tack, belts and leather goods built to last a lifetime.
Gifts for Cowboys and Ranchers: Western Gifts for Men from a Tack Maker (2026)
My picks for cowboys and ranchers, from knife sheaths and latigos to reins, spur straps and belts, plus how to...
How to Choose a Saddle Water Bottle Holder: Horn, Clip-On, or Rear Billet?
Why I carry a water bottle on the rear billet instead of the horn, how to install my holder there...
Parts of a Western Saddle: Labeled Diagram and What Wears Out First
A labeled guide to the parts of a western saddle, what each one does, and which parts wear out first....
How to Saddle a Horse Western Style
My step-by-step routine for saddling a horse western style, front cinch first, with saddle fitter Wendy Winn's videos on saddle...
How Tight Should a Back Cinch Be?
How I set a back cinch, what happens when it's too loose, who needs one, the order I put cinches...
When to Replace Your Latigo: Where It Wears and What to Check
Where a latigo wears out, how often I check mine, why I replace them every one to two seasons, and...
