hey all
I have the oppourtunity to purchase a Jim Sands Rope Saddle - has anyone heard of this brand. I am from Alberta and no one has really heard of it.

Thanks

Haven't heard of this one. Gook luck in your search. Monte Alkire www.ropeyourdream.com

I was looking for another roping saddle this summer, and came across several Jim Sands saddles. I don't remember all the details, but supposedly he was partnered in Kansas with someone else. He and his partner split, his partner going to Mexico and making saddles that didn't have the original quality, but still had the Jim Sands name. Like I said, I don't remember all the details, but I would exercise caution.
I ended up with a Carl Ammerman saddle that's awesome. If you want a deal on one of those though, you have to find someone who doesn't know what they're worth! :-)

Back to the Jim Sands, you should be able to find some info. if you just google "Jim Sands saddle"

Sorry to double post, but I just looked up the Jim Sands again because I was curious. Apparently he made Santa Fe saddles. Regardless of the history, my sister had an older Santa Fe roping saddle that I rode it quite a bit. It was comfortable and very well made. Like I said, it was an older one, but still in tip top shape. When I was looking for a saddle this summer, I found a newer Santa Fe(bought new within the last two years) - I looked at two pictures and could tell it was junk. I don't have a lot of tack experience, but it's amazing how easily you can see the difference in a well built saddle. I have a Comanche brand saddle - never have found a bit of info. on it, but it is built TOUGH! All that to say, if it's older and well built, you'd have a good saddle. BTW, what is the asking price? If you have a chance to post a picture, that would show a lot. Hope this helps!