Ambush saddle customizations

[BenHuntin]

Just got my hands on a Trophyline Ambush saddle to play with while I wait for my Mantis. Will probably keep it as a backup saddle after I receive my Mantis, so I want to have the Ambush up to snuff.
I’ve never played with one, but from what I see I have a couple questions: 1) is there any way to use a waist belt instead of the suspenders? 2) is there any way to rig up an Amsteel bridge instead of the webbing?
I’m planning on making the leg straps adjustable so the bottom of the saddle isn’t flopping around on the walk to the tree. Or may remove them completely - thoughts?
Any other thoughts would be appreciated! Thanks!

 

[huck72412]

You can pull the outer strap of the bridge to the right while wearing it and it will tighten the saddle around your body. Onceyou start adding weight to the saddle it will loosen gradually. I'd add better suspenders or I'd make some from rope. If your saddle was manufactured after 2005 then you will have sewn loops on each hip for use with the lineman's strap. You can make a bridge that goes from loop to loop.

 

[BenHuntin]

You can pull the outer strap of the bridge to the right while wearing it and it will tighten the saddle around your body. Onceyou start adding weight to the saddle it will loosen gradually. I'd add better suspenders or I'd make some from rope. If your saddle was manufactured after 2005 then you will have sewn loops on each hip for use with the lineman's strap. You can make a bridge that goes from loop to loop.

Is the placement of the lineman’s loops adequate for bridge comfort vs where the stock webbing bridge attaches?

 

[huck72412]

Is the placement of the lineman’s loops adequate for bridge comfort vs where the stock webbing bridge attaches?

Yes. I did it to one of mine and felt like it worked fine. Just double check the stitching on the loops.

 

[BenHuntin]

Yes. I did it to one of mine and felt like it worked fine. Just double check the stitching on the loops.

Appreciate the info Huck. How’s the comfort of a TL stack up against a kestrel of more modern saddle option in your opinion?

 

[huck72412]

I have always loved my TL. Especially my leather ones. I bought a Kestrel and found it to be comfortable. I had the ambush and loved the breathable fabric but wasn't as comfortable as my others. Fast forward to the Mantis...Hands down the most comfortable lightweight saddle available. The issues that negatively impacted comfort in the ambush have been addressed and perfected in my opinion. Height and depth are crucial to comfort and Tethrd nailed it.

 

[BenHuntin]

I have always loved my TL. Especially my leather ones. I bought a Kestrel and found it to be comfortable. I had the ambush and loved the breathable fabric but wasn't as comfortable as my others. Fast forward to the Mantis...Hands down the most comfortable lightweight saddle available. The issues that negatively impacted comfort in the ambush have been addressed and perfected in my opinion. Height and depth are crucial to comfort and Tethrd nailed it.

Well, that ain’t helping my impatience to get that shipping email for my Mantis. got a neoprene TL on the way too, but I think it is a size too big. I’ll find out.
Thanks again man!

 

[huck72412]

Well, that ain’t helping my impatience to get that shipping email for my Mantis. got a neoprene TL on the way too, but I think it is a size too big. I’ll find out.
Thanks again man!

No problem at all. The neoprene is a better saddle to me. It worth it in the late season. Very warm. Late season equates to thicker clothing so maybe it will fit better.

 

[jryser]

Dang I love my mesh TL the best! Neoprene second, leather third. So funny how we are all different! I use all stock on my TLs so jumping into a mantis will be a really fun deal. I’ll always love my original TLs and hunt out of em too. I do love the leather for winter.


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[BenHuntin]

Dang I love my mesh TL the best! Neoprene second, leather third. So funny how we are all different! I use all stock on my TLs so jumping into a mantis will be a really fun deal. I’ll always love my original TLs and hunt out of em too. I do love the leather for winter.


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Now THAT is what I wanted to hear Jim haha. I’ve always liked the looks of the mesh TL. Really look forward to trying it. Do you ever feel the need for a back support band with your TL? I’ve used one before on the Kestrel and probably will on my Mantis. With the webbing bridge I see that not being an option on the TL with the stock bridge...

 

[jryser]

Now THAT is what I wanted to hear Jim haha. I’ve always liked the looks of the mesh TL. Really look forward to trying it. Do you ever feel the need for a back support band with your TL? I’ve used one before on the Kestrel and probably will on my Mantis. With the webbing bridge I see that not being an option on the TL with the stock bridge...

No it’s pretty comfy as is. Rides high enough not to need one. I sleep in it too. Ur gonna love it. Now I don’t have my Mantis yet but I know I’ll love it. But saddles are just the best way in the world to hunt!!!


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[Vtbow]

Dang I love my mesh TL the best! Neoprene second, leather third. So funny how we are all different! I use all stock on my TLs so jumping into a mantis will be a really fun deal. I’ll always love my original TLs and hunt out of em too. I do love the leather for winter.


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I like the mesh the best too. I had a neoprene and got rid of it Mesh conformed better to my body shape. Neoprene was Just too stiff to fit me well. I'm sure huck's right on the warmth factor--but I'll just throw some more wool on.