How to Measure the Gullet on a Western Saddle for a Mule

Gullet width is an extremely important measurement when determining a proper saddle fit for your mule. According to equinelink.com, the gullet is the channel running down the center of the underside of a saddle, in between the panels. The gullet bridges the animal's spine, and is crucial to saddle design. If the gullet is too narrow, it can cause a great deal of pain and discomfort for your steed. With a properly-fitted saddle, you and your mule can look forward to many relaxing and enjoyable rides.

Things You'll Need

Solder wire
Marker pen
Flexible measuring tape

Instructions

- 1
  
  Use solder wire for determing saddle measurements.
  
  Cut a 16-inch piece of solder wire. Mark the wire at the 8-inch point.
- 2
  
  Be sure the animal is standing on a level surface when taking measurements.
  
  Stand the mule on a level surface. Locate the back edge of his shoulder blade with two fingers. Keep your fingers in place and, with your other hand, place the wire over the withers. Place the marked center-point directly above the withers, with 8 inches of wire on each side. This point should be located directly over your two fingers, which are marking the back edge of the shoulder blade.
- 3
  
  An ill-fitting saddle can cause a great deal of pain and discomfort.
  
  Mold and press the wire down so that it makes a perfect outline of your mule's withers. It must make contact with the animal's skin on both sides, right behind the shoulder blade.
- 4
  
  Measuring as precisely as possible will help provide an excellent saddle fit.
  
  Remove the measuring tool gently, so that you don't disturb the shape. Lay the diagram on a sheet of paper and trace the wire shape . Using a flexible measuring tape, measure from the top-center of the diagram straight down 3 inches. From that point, take the width measurement of the diagram. This provides the gullet measurement needed when purchasing a western saddle for your mule.