Cutting Saddle

The cutting saddle is designed for “cutting,” the process of separating a single cow, steer, or calf from a larger herd. Cutting is a finesse activity and requires a finesse saddle. A cutter is designed to keep the rider balanced and out of the way of the horse during sharp starts, stops, and turns. It will also hold the rider in place during what can be quite a wild ride.

Typical features of a cutting saddle include:

• Tall, thin horn for an easy handgrip
• High, wide and straight swells to hold in the rider during sharp turns
• Flat, long seat to allow maximum maneuverability
• Rough-out jockeys and fenders for better grip
• Forward-hung and free-swinging fenders to allow the rider to stay balanced and deep during sharp stops and turns


• Slim stirrups to keep the boot in place
• Low cantle that won’t hit the rider in the back
• Double rigging - front cinch and flank cinch

A cutter saddle is a relatively versatile saddle, which can make it an economical saddle to own. In addition to cutting, a cutter can be a good choice for training, for penning events and even for reining, in a pinch. These activities can all be wild rides. A saddle designed to hold you in and keep you balanced can be quite welcome.

Billy Cook	Dakota