Mounted search and rescue

["Mike" <revmp777@earthlink.net>]

Please unsubscribe me.

Thanks,
Mike
----- Original Message -----
From: "Jorene Downs" <Jorene@CEOates.com>
To: "Mounted search and rescue" <msar-riders@lists.ibiblio.org>
Sent: Wednesday, February 21, 2007 18:37
Subject: Re: [MSAR] Saddlebag inventory: - whats in yours


> "Packing Light" on the horse can make a big difference in endurance,
> particularly in more challenging terrain where the horse is working
harder.
> Professional packers and experienced backcountry riders tend to agree ...
> the key reason why they pack the extra weight on pack animals, and limit
the
> personal gear weight per person.
>
> Weight over the horse's kidneys isn't recommended for any length of time,
> which is also why riding double isn't advisable. Distributed weight is
> easier for the horse to carry, and long term healthier for the horse ...
> which is why saddles are designed to distribute weight. Contemporary
> backcountry rider's gear commonly offers matching horn bags ... to
> distribute the weight.
>
> Groundpounders in SAR commonly pack about 30-35 pounds even in a 72 hour
> pack, with any extra specialized gear distributed between team members.  I
> know folks who head into the backcountry for 3 days with 30 pounds of
gear.
> In MSAR many wear vests with multiple pockets for critical gear, and
> distribute the rest between saddlebags and horn bags.
>
> A lot of very lightweight gear is now available for backpackers, providing
> good alternatives to the traditional gear piled high behind the saddle.
> Experienced backpackers also seek good quality packs that distribute
weight
> and reduce back pain.
>
> Check what the SAR folks with the lightweight packs are carrying, and
> consider how that can be applied to MSAR. Also select lightweight items
that
> will have multiple use so you can leave other items at home. Your horse
will
> thank you. ;)
>
> ~ ~ ~ ~
> Jorene Downs
> SAR & CERT
> Mounted SAR
> www.ceoates.com/msar
>
> ----- Original Message -----
> From: "Chuck Daniel" <iwhound@voyager.net>
> [...]
> > handed me the most recent Trail Rider Magazine and showed me a short
> > article
> > about less is the best policy.  The short paragraph states:
> >
> > "Go Light
> > The worst possible location to carry weight is behind the saddle, over
> > your
> > horse's kidneys.  Large saddlebags and saddle packs designed to carry
> > overnight camping gear tempt you to fill them with unneeded items, to
the
> > possible detriment of your horse.  Keep your saddlebags small and light.
> > If
> > you must carry heavier items, such as water bottles, etc. select pommel
or
> > horn packs that fit on the front of the saddle. "
> >    Montana Outfitter Dan Aadland
> >    adapted from 101 Trail Riding Tips
>
>
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