New Weighted Reins

I have been on the hunt to replace my favorite reins for over two years, ever since the rawhide split on my favorite set. Sad day, as I am a creature of habit, and I like my tack to remain consistent.

Aren’t they beautiful? What I loved about this old set of reins is the weight and drape at the bit. I remember the day I found them, among many other sets, and I let them drop from hand to hand, I knew right away they were perfect for the communication I wanted. I practically danced out of the store in happiness.

They were great reins from day one, until the rawhide came undone.

I continued to use them, as the rawhide is only decorative, and there is a leather rein underneath it, but it scares everyone who sees it. “Your rein’s broke.”

Yes and no.

Well, anyway, it’s time to move on from them.

I searched for “weighted leather split reins” first locally, struck out, then on the internet. 

It’s not ideal, buying off the internet. You can’t feel them. Drape them. But I did some research and read some reviews  and found a set at Buckaroo Leather that sounded like exactly what I wanted and made from Herman Oak Leather. (They were also having a sale to mark the 4th of July).

“Our finest Quality weighted Leather Split Reins are nice and heavy through out, and lined with soft chap leather, but 3 ply for 24", extra weighted, at the bit end for the perfect drape and communication. 1 pair Weighs about 2- 2 1/2 lbs. Built for show and training! Quality Hermann Oak Double and Sewn Harness Leather with soft chap lining, Oiled and Hand Rubbed for that superior soft and supple "broke in" feel-the best on the planet! Choose oiled standard brown harness or black oiled.”

Regarding Herman Oak leather:

They are in a slow season right now at Buckaroo Leather, so they sent me out the custom reins the next day and they arrived yesterday, about three days later.

They’re so soft and pliable. Gorgeous reins. Beautiful drape, sweet split popper at the end. I ordered 7’, because my former set were just a little over that. These measure at 7’2”, so they listened to me when I told them my old ones came in a little over 7’. Wow. 

I’ll have to update this once I put them on my bridle. The quality of these reins right out of the box is shocking. Many thanks to Buckaroo Leather!

I had the option to get weighted at the bridle or weighted at the bit or both, I chose only weighted at the bit. They have a great feel at the popper end unweighted, but I can also see a benefit in a weighted popper end, as they might hang down straighter. 

I’ll have to try them out, although I can’t imagine them getting any better than this.

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Update on Epona. She is fully integrated to Cowgirl and Leah, but won’t be introduced to the rest of the herd until Monday, just to be extra safe.

She paces the first night, but after she got turnout and mama time, she calmed right down and I didn’t see her pacing at all afterward. Cowgirl knew what she was doing taking control of her like she did. 

Here’s a video from the first day turned out. Cowgirl seems to be very happy that she’s integrating with Tumbleweed, but she is also expecting Epona to be on her best behavior.

Thank you, Cowgirl!! 🙏