How to Use the Back Cinch on a Western Saddle

While most Western saddles are built for double-rigging -- that is, for both a front and a back cinch -- many riders use only a front one. While the front cinch is absolutely essential for keeping the saddle on the horse, the rear or flank cinch is not necessary for most pleasure riders. However, for those riders who rope cattle, participate in barrel racing or pole bending, cut cattle or trail ride in rough areas, a rear cinch can be useful. If a rear or flank cinch is used, it is necessary to fasten it properly to avoid injury to horse and/or rider.

Things You'll Need

  • Rear billet straps
  • Cinch connecting strap
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Instructions

    • 1

      Saddle the horse and fasten the front cinch securely.

    • 2

      Place a rear billet on each side of the saddle, attaching them to the rear dees if there are some, or to the in-skirt slot.

    • 3

      Fasten the rear cinch to the right billet, then pull it under the horse and fasten it to the left billet. The rear cinch should be fastened so that it is snug but not tight like the front cinch. In addition, it should not be too loose. There should never be more than two fingers' room between the rear cinch and the horse. The rear cinch is used solely to keep the rear of the saddle from tilting upward when the horse is engaged in fast action requiring sudden turns and stops. In roping, it will keep the back of the saddle from flipping up from the force of the calf or steer on the horn. While the rear cinch will not keep the saddle from sliding forward, it will help keep the saddle in position when negotiating steep slopes in rough terrain. If it is fastened too loosely, it will not keep the back of the saddle down and it may also allow the horse to get a hoof caught in it.

    • 4

      Attach and fasten the cinch connecting strap. It should be fastened so that the rear cinch will hang vertically or be pulled slightly toward the front. It should not be loose enough to allow the rear cinch to slide farther back where it may put pressure on the sensitive flank area.