Have you ever wondered what a rein maker does to get weighted reins to feel so good and have such a nice drape? Dennis Moreland Tack shares the answer: naturally weighted reins are cut from hides that are specifically chosen for their weights and thicknesses. No extra leather or additional materials are added to them. Notice in the picture of the reins (click here) the difference in the thicknesses of the tail, center and bit ends of this pair of reins.
Hides are thickest and therefore heaviest in the neck region, slightly less thick and less heavy in the butt which carries through the back and thinner and lightest in the shoulder. To cut good bridle reins only very good hides can be used. The hides are laid out flat on a long table. The reins are cut across the entire length of each hide with the thicker, heavier areas of the hides becoming the tail and bit ends of the reins. The heavy neck end of the hide that becomes the tails of the reins balances out the slightly less heavy but longer butt end of the hide which becomes the bit ends. This gives the bridle reins balance in your hands and a nice drape.
The biggest key to making very good naturally weighted reins is to have the knowledge and experience with what leather makes a great pair of reins. Being able to identify and cull hides that will not make a premium set of reins is as important as being able to correctly cut and finish the hides that will! Only the most dense, tightest fibered hides go into making a harness leather bridle rein that, once you ride with it, you’ll never want to ride with any other. “To have a horse with feel your reins have got to have feel”. Curly Tully
Dennis Moreland hand cut, naturally weighted Harness Leather Reins are made in Weatherford, TX, 1 pair at a time, from the best hides money can buy. To learn more about these reins call or text Dennis at 817-312-5305 or write dmtack@vrfmail.com.
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