lubrication

[plockton18]

I have a leathered gaff saddle, rtaher than jaws, on my boat. What should I use to lubricate the leather to prevent it chafing the varnished (Epiphanes) mast?

 

[Poignard]

Neatsfoot oil

 

[Mirelle]

Tallow!

(well, that's what I use - also used on bowsprit traveller leathered ring, shroud lanyards where they go through the deadeyes when setting them up, the bowsprit gammon iron and fid, etc.)

Stays put very well.

 

[srp]

I always use tallow - I bought a tub from a plumbers merchant - brand name Monument (their name appears on a lot of plumbing tools and sundries, so most plumbers will have heard of them).

 

[Woodlouse]

Tallow's the answer. You can either melt it down and paint it on to the leather, or rub it on when it's solid. Both methods work, which is best I leave for you to decide.