This is such an incredible saddle. Yes, its nearing ‘vintage’ but clearly this piece of history hasn’t seen too much work and goes to show that quality saddles last a lifetime. This punchy roper is an original Slim Fallis. The serial number doesn’t correlate with a date, but given the look and that its when Slim was in Elbert, Colorado, this one is likely from the early 1980’s. There is a reason that these saddles have a cult following. The three point in skirt, flat rigging helps improve horse shoulder movement while lessening bulk and the free swinging fenders that are forward set are fully adjustable to offer ample support for the rider while being comfortable for long hours in the saddle. This one the perfect marriage between a trail saddle and a roper, with a post roper horn while still having a heavily padded seat. On a reinforced tree, however isn’t as heavy as you’d expect as it has a single and shorter skirt. Measures 14.5″, but actually fits generously, fitting closer to a 15″, offering nice padding and shallower seat. On QH bars that measures 6″, fitting wider than you’d expect with that measurement, fitting low and wide with just a teeny bit of rock. This saddle has clearly been well loved and well used, with no expenses spared with its care. Was recently re-fleeced with real shearling. Saddlers will know-if you can re-fleece a saddle while using the same stitch holes, you’re a darn good saddler. Not a single new stitch hole on this one! Additionally, all stitching was replaced on the rigging, with near zero stretch to the rigging holes. 3″ cantle, 2.75″ x 3″ post horn, 13″ swells, and 26.5″. In dark oiled leather with a classic oak leaf and acorn tooling pattern. The leather on this one is so darn soft, clearly well cared for throughout its life. Has a few blemishes here and there from time and use. Has what appears to be a small burn hole on the seat, few scraps and scuffs, a few of its saddle strings have been cut, but in outstanding condition given its age and use. No signs this saddle has been roped off of. And of course, this one is finished off with the famed balance fenders! You don’t find a Fallis rig like this very often!
