5 Tips for using a Decker Pack Saddle

This will be the first of several videos in a How To Series on packing with horses and mules. For those of you who follow my channel you know that I use horses regularly on my hunting adventures and through this series of videos I hope to share some of the knowledge required to safely and effectively use stock in the backcountry.
In this video I cover 5 tips that I use when setting up a decker pack saddle for use on the mountain. I've found over the years that doing these to all my saddles saves me time and ultimately makes things go just a little easier.

[@outfitr9703]

Nice work!

[@Splitlip1948]

Great info. Like how all is planed out and in its place. U take good care of ur equipment and stock.

[@MatherOutdoors]

Thank you.

[@jakef1977]

Cool stuff! one day I'd like to play around with a decker. We just use our old sawbucks and my old canvas and leather bags. They work for us so no need to change yet.

[@williamchester5001]

Great information, thanks for sharing. *****

[@WesternWandererJM]

You can always tell a guy who learned to pack from an outfitter. They are efficient, and predictable in the way they put up their saddle, and they aren't afraid to use sling or lash ropes. It's always a wreck when I pack with someone who was self taught or taught by a recreational packer. They all want to do their little shortcuts that end up being more time and effort. Guys who have had to pack dozens of critters all summer and or hunting season figure out to do things one way on all the stock and saddles and you won't have to guess how each one goes. Like putting up sling ropes FROM THE BACK every time. You know it will be set up right each time you go to sling a new load. Or Tying off and putting up extra rope the same way , in the same place every time on a finished load. You aren't looking for the rope end when you have 25 loads of hay to unload. Nicely done.

[@MatherOutdoors]

Thanks for the comment. I did indeed go through “packing school” from an outfitter and learned more in that first year than the the cumulative time I spent packing before it. Nothing beats first hand experience and lots of practice.

[@WesternWandererJM]

@@MatherOutdoors but being taught by someone who has to be efficient and does high volume makes a big difference.

[@SAVAGEPATRIOT]

Great video

[@Archie144]

Awesome tips

[@michaelogden5093]

Looks like Ken's Canvas Shop, Homedale ID.

[@nathanhardman4912]

Great info. Are you going to going to treat us with a spring black bear hunt in 2022 👏

[@MatherOutdoors]

I don’t have that in the plans, sorry.

[@waltweaver7297]

I've been around mules on hunting trips over the years and have watched lots of you tube I've never seen anyone use or talk about 1/4 breed, where did you buy it?

[@MatherOutdoors]

I had all mine made at my local canvas shop. The Outfitter that taught me how to pack used them on all his pack saddles. After using them myself I’m a big believer in them.

[@lockgessner]

Looks like Kens doesnt list those cinches is that a custom order deal?

[@MatherOutdoors]

He may not list them but he usually has a few made around his shop. If you call him he will know what you’re after and get you set up.

[@larryfuller5659]

Did you have to have those Cinches custom made?

[@MatherOutdoors]

Yes

[@larryfuller5659]

@@MatherOutdoors Thank you

[@outfitr9703]

Nice work!