Any experiance with Hereford Textan barrel saddles?

I'm looking into buying an older Hereford Textan barrel saddle for my mare. I'm not going to be barrel racing her hardcore anytime soon, she's green right now so it will only be gymkhana at the moment. I want a saddle that is going to last, and is nice to ride in, as I don't want to be throwing her off. Does any one have any information on these saddles, like the quality and how long they will last me, etc. Thanks

My mother has an "original" hereford barrel racing saddle. That thing is almost 40 years old and it looks almost perfect. But she also took care of it over the years.

Now, I have been told that the "newer" Herefords aren't the quality of the "original" ones, but I have not seen that for myself.

I personally have a Circle Y from Smith Brothers. I bought it about 7 years ago for around $750. It has been a really great saddle for the price. Fits almost every horse fine and is very comfortable.

My next purchase is going to be a Billy Cook next year!

I have a hereford! I don't know how old it is but it's older. I LOVE it. Super comfy, the seat isn't super deep but it fits me right and sets me up good.

Mine:

LOVE old Herefords. We have 2 here, the pleasure saddle I know is a good 40 years old and the other not quite as old is a rough out barrel saddle that my ample hindquarters sadly won't fit in these days lol. They are both in great shape. If you care for them, they last forever.

I love them! I have a newer saddle made by them, but it's really sturdy, good looking and is super comfortable.

I own two older (1970's) Hereford Ropers. One Kenway and one Imperial. Great saddles. If I had to sell everything except three saddles it would be these two herefords and an old Circle Y that we have. The quality of these old saddles cannot be beat. I own a Billy Cook and a Circle G that are new. They are pretty decent saddles. Not a fan of the new circle y or tex tan's much though.

I love TexTan so I'm glad to hear about that brand. I am looking at one listed on statelinetack.com