I attach LOC Paragraph 13942, from the 1st
of December, 1907, which deals with the conversion of Pattern 1890 saddles.
13942. – Saddlery, universal –
Saddles, steel arch. Pattern 1890, converted
(large..medium..small) and V-girth attachments.
Alterations of front arch. Side bars
&c., to assimilate with pattern 1902.
The undermentioned alterations, which
adapt the saddle for a wide range of fitting, makes them more serviceable, lighter, and also suitable for drivers’ saddles,
as arranged for pattern 1902 (paragraph 11417), have been approved- (8th
Oct. 1907)
(a.)
Points of front arch cut off.
(b.)
Side bars shortened to the length and also the shape of “0” size.
(c.)
Numnah panels, for use with these saddles, shortened to fit the altered side bars.
(d.)
Saddles re-marked as follows :_
“0” size re-marked
“S”
“1” size re-marked
“M”
“2” size re-marked
“M”
“3” size re-marked
“L”
The respective sizes will be found suitable
as under-
The large for heavy horses.
The medium for horses in general.
The small for animals 15 hands and under.
The table shown in paragraph 11417 (page
56, Vol. XXII.), may be taken as a general guide to the proportion of sizes for issue.
Each saddle is to be used without a numnah
(Household Cavalry excepted), but numnah panels must always be worn to protect the side bars, to give the necessary bearing
and padding, and to provide pads under the front of the flaps.
When used in draft, the side rein, if
required, will be attached to the upper slot in the front arch, or the second link on the point of the side bar.
Saddles and numnah panels in possession
of troops will be altered by regimental artificers, and those in Army Ordnance stores under local arrangements.
