Horse Pack Saddles

For centuries, horses have been essential for carrying loads through rugged landscapes, serving as reliable pack animals for explorers, hunters, and wilderness adventurers.
A horse pack saddle is the key piece of equipment that enables a horse to comfortably carry heavy loads over long distances. Unlike riding saddles, pack saddles are specifically designed to balance and secure equipment or supplies on the horse’s back, making it possible to transport goods efficiently through remote areas.
In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about horse pack saddles, including types, uses, and tips for packing effectively.

What Is a Horse Pack Saddle?

A horse pack saddle is a specially designed saddle that distributes the weight of loads over the horse’s back and sides. Unlike a traditional riding saddle, a pack saddle includes a frame, or tree, and specific rigging to secure cargo. This structure helps balance and stabilise the load, reducing the risk of injury to the horse and making transport safer for both the horse and its handler. The primary goal of a pack saddle is to ensure even weight distribution to keep the horse comfortable and prevent unnecessary strain on its back.

Types of Horse Pack Saddles

Horse pack saddles come in several designs, each suited to specific types of loads, terrain, and trip duration. Here are the main types:

Decker Pack Saddle

The Decker saddle, developed in the U.S. in the early 20th century, is popular among professional packers and outfitters. It features metal arches, or hoops, at the front and back, which hold panniers (packs) securely. Decker saddles offer excellent stability and allow for versatile loading options, as the bags can be secured higher or lower based on the terrain or load type.

Sawbuck Pack Saddle

The Sawbuck saddle is a traditional design with a wooden or metal “X” frame that rests over the horse’s back. It’s one of the most common pack saddles due to its simplicity and versatility, making it suitable for a variety of pack loads. Sawbuck saddles are favoured for light to moderate loads and are commonly used by casual packers and recreational adventurers.

Crossbuck Pack Saddle

Similar to the Sawbuck, the Crossbuck saddle has two “crossbuck” frames that form an X pattern, designed to support heavy loads evenly across the horse’s back. These saddles are ideal for long-distance trips or when carrying bulky items, as the sturdy frame offers enhanced durability and stability.

Modified or Hybrid Pack Saddles

Hybrid pack saddles combine elements of different saddle types, such as incorporating a Decker tree with Sawbuck-style rigging. These saddles are often customised to provide flexibility for specific needs or terrain, making them a versatile choice for experienced packers looking to optimize load management.

Components of a Horse Pack Saddle

Understanding the parts of a pack saddle is essential for using it correctly and ensuring the safety of your horse:

• Tree: The central frame that provides structure, usually made from wood, metal, or a hybrid of materials.
• Bars: Long wooden or metal bars distribute the load along the horse’s spine, reducing concentrated pressure points.
• Cinches: Securing straps that wrap around the horse’s belly to hold the saddle in place. Typically, pack saddles have both front and rear cinches for added stability.
• Breeching and Breast Collar: These straps prevent the saddle from sliding back (breeching) or forward (breast collar), especially important on steep terrain.
• Panniers: Bags or boxes attached to the pack saddle for carrying supplies. They can be made from canvas, leather, or synthetic materials and come in various sizes to accommodate different load types.

Benefits of Using a Horse Pack Saddle

Using a well-fitted horse pack saddle allows adventurers and packers to:

1. Distribute Weight Evenly: The structure of pack saddles ensures even distribution of weight across the horse’s back, preventing injury and fatigue.
2. Increase Load Capacity: Unlike a standard riding saddle, a pack saddle allows a horse to carry significantly more weight in a safe manner.
3. Adapt to Varied Terrain: With secure rigging and panniers, pack saddles help stabilise loads, even on uneven or steep terrain.
4. Enhance Pack Organization: With multiple attachment points, pack saddles offer easy ways to secure items and keep them balanced.

Popular Uses for Horse Pack Saddles

Horse pack saddles are used in various settings, including:

• Trail Riding and Camping: Ideal for carrying camping gear, food supplies, and water over long distances.
• Hunting Expeditions: Hunters use pack saddles to carry equipment into remote areas and transport game out.
• Mountain Travel: Horses with pack saddles can carry gear over rough terrain where vehicles cannot reach.
• Backcountry Exploration: Explorers and adventurers use pack saddles for carrying food, tents, and survival gear on extended backcountry trips.

Conclusion

Horse pack saddles open up a world of possibilities for those who seek adventure in remote, rugged landscapes. Whether you’re planning a camping trip, a hunting expedition, or an extended trail ride, a well-fitted and balanced pack saddle can make all the difference. By selecting the right type, packing carefully, and maintaining your saddle properly, you’ll not only ensure your horse’s comfort and safety but also enjoy a more organised and stress-free journey. Embrace the art of packing and give your horse the equipment it needs to become a reliable partner in your adventures.

FAQs

1. How much weight can a horse carry on a pack saddle?
   • Generally, a horse can carry around 20% of its body weight, but this depends on the horse’s fitness and the difficulty of the terrain.
2. What type of pack saddle is best for mountainous terrain?
   • A Decker saddle is often recommended for mountainous terrain due to its stability and flexibility in positioning panniers.
3. How can I prevent saddle sores on my pack horse?
   • Use a thick pack pad, avoid overloading, and distribute weight evenly. Regularly inspect for any signs of rubbing or irritation.
4. Can I use a pack saddle on a donkey or mule?
   • Yes, pack saddles are also available for donkeys and mules, which are commonly used as pack animals.
5. What should I put in each pannier?
   • Place heavier items at the bottom and balance the load in both panniers. Essential items like water or food should be easily accessible.