A McClellan saddle tree is made up of five wooden parts. The pommel, two side bars, and the cantle (which itself is comprised of two parts joined together with an iron strap). The entire affair is then covered with rawhide which is sewn together using rawhide lacing. This method of tree construction remained constant for the duration of the McClellan's history with the US Army 1859 - 1945.
A McClellan saddle consists of several key parts, including the tree, which provides structure; the seat, where the rider sits; and the panels, which distribute the rider's weight over the horse's back. It also features stirrups for foot support, girth straps to secure the saddle to the horse, and a cantle and pommel that help stabilize the rider. Additionally, the McClellan saddle typically has a more minimalistic design, often lacking extensive padding and offering a closer contact feel between horse and rider.
tree flaps girth straps
A saddle tree is the framework or foundation of a saddle that provides structure and support. It is typically made from wood, fiberglass, or plastic, and is covered with padding and leather to create the finished saddle. The shape and design of the saddle tree influence the fit and comfort of the saddle for both the horse and the rider.
A treeless saddle
frame The hard part of a saddle is called a saddle tree.
cantle, pommle, tree, seat, flap, knee roll, billets
I would do a close contact saddle or for western, a tree less saddle
No it is not safe to sit on a tree of a saddle stand if it is brand new or very old
The tree
tree
wood tree
yes