Thunderbeast Saddle - #64

Encore 2017

West created this saddle, Thunderbeast, as a tribute to the American bison that once roamed in great herds throughout the American West. The leather is fully hand carved in a floral pattern, while the saddle forks — made from deep, rich mahogany — showcase hand carved bison heads that appear to be lowered in anticipation of a charge. West carved the mahogany saddle horn in a circular scroll pattern, while the cantle carries a depiction of a bison and scrollwork also carved in rich mahogany. The saddle is complemented with hand engraved sterling silver conchas and buckles by Scott Hardy.

Troy West, Saddlemaker (Member)
Azle, Texas

Troy West wanted to become a professional rodeo cowboy, but in 1977, when his brother decided to attend school in Amarillo, Texas, to learn saddle-building, West went too. Along with making beautiful saddles, his lifelong goal includes creating a saddletree that is comfortable for the horse and the rider. He has won Best of Show at the Boot and Saddlemaker Roundup five times and, in 2014, received the Will Rogers Award for Saddlemaker of the Year. West said becoming a TCAA member is one of the major highlights of his career — he considers it an honor and a privilege to work with some of the best craftsmen in the world.