NRS Competitor Series Heavy Oil Roughout Strip Down Olin Young Ranch Roper Saddle

The NRS Competitor Series Heavy Oil Roughout Strip Down Olin Young Ranch Roper Saddle is a no-frills, all-business saddle built for the working cowboy. With its “strip down” design, you get a lighter, leaner saddle that ditches extra bulk and keeps you agile during long days and hard pulls.

Constructed with heavy oil roughout leather, a low, secure roping horn, and the trusted Olin Young-style tree, this saddle is ideal for ranchers, ropers, and performance riders who value strength, functionality, and grit over flash.

🔍 Key Features

• Seat Size: Commonly available in 14” to 16”
• Tree: Olin Young Ranch Roper Tree – strong, low-profile, and made for high-pressure work
• Leather: Full roughout, heavy oil – adds grip and endurance under daily use
• Design: Strip down style – minimal skirts, lightweight build, and no extra tooling
• Seat: Flat or suede seat for all-day comfort and close contact
• Cantle: Low to medium height (~3.5″–4”) for quick movement and balance
• Horn: Short, thick horn for roping and dallying
• Rigging: In-skirt rigging for a low center of gravity and close contact
• Skirt: Compact square or rounded skirt with wool lining for back comfort
• Stirrups: Rawhide or leather-covered wooden stirrups, angled for natural leg position
• Weight: Approx. 36–40 lbs — lighter than traditional ropers

✅ Benefits

• 💪 Built Tough – Olin Young tree and heavy oil roughout hold up under ranch and roping stress
• 🧲 Secure Ride – Roughout finish provides excellent leg and seat grip
• 🪶 Lightweight & Nimble – Strip down design reduces weight without sacrificing strength
• 🐴 Horse-Friendly – Compact skirt and full QH bars ensure better back comfort
• 🔧 No Extra Fluff – Minimal hardware and leather = more freedom, less maintenance

🇺🇸 USA Buying Guide

• New Price Range: $2,200 – $2,500
• Used Price Estimate: $1,500 – $1,850
• Where to Buy: NRS tack stores, secondhand Western dealers, or specialty saddle sellers
• Shipping (Domestic): $60–$90 depending on location
• Used Buying Tips:
  • Inspect tree and horn base for cracks or stress lines
  • Check stirrup leather wear and rigging tightness
  • Confirm fleece is intact and not hardened

🇬🇧 UK Buying Guide

• Estimated Total Cost (incl. VAT, duty, shipping): £1,800 – £2,400
• Shipping Time: 2–4 weeks via international courier
• Buying Options: Order through U.S. retailers with international delivery or via freight forwarding
• Import Tip: Use HS Code 4201.00 – describe as “Ranch Roper Saddle – Personal Use” to ease customs

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What does “strip down” mean in saddle design?

“Strip down” means minimal skirts, no extra leather trim or tooling, and fewer decorative features. It’s meant to cut weight, reduce bulk, and give the rider close contact and agility.

Q2: Who is the Olin Young saddle design best for?

It’s ideal for ranch riders and working ropers who want a deep, secure seat with a low horn, tight rigging, and quick access to movement — all with rugged durability.

Q3: What’s the advantage of roughout leather?

Roughout leather gives natural grip without needing extra padding. It’s especially valuable when working long days or during fast-paced roping or sorting events.

Q4: Is this saddle lightweight?

Yes — compared to full-skirted ropers with full tooling, the strip down model saves around 5–10 lbs, helping reduce horse fatigue and rider strain.

Q5: Will this fit a stock-type horse?

Absolutely. Most models come with full Quarter Horse bars, perfect for ranch horses and stock breeds with broad backs.

🏁 Final Thoughts

The NRS Competitor Series Heavy Oil Roughout Strip Down Olin Young Ranch Roper Saddle is built for the rider who wants no-nonsense performance. With maximum grip, lightweight design, and Olin Young’s proven fit and form, this saddle is your partner for every long day on the range, every rope thrown, and every mile ridden.