Spent some time with my Kestrel today. Decided to see how using a bowline knot to replace the carabiner on my bridge would work. I've had a lot of experience using the bowline and find it simple, quick and easy to tie and untie, even after it's been under a load. I've never experienced any problems using it even on extreme heavy loads. Using the bowline I'm able to quickly shorten or lengthen the bridge. Even though I feel safe and like it better than the carabiner I wanted to question the more experienced saddle hunters about their opinions. What do you say?