I'm going on my first horseback hunt up in Alaska for dall sheep. Part of my plan is to take some horseback lessons several months before the hunt. What would you suggest I concentrate on learning?

The last time I rode a horse was about thirty five years ago as a kid in camp. That horse about killed me and I about killed it back! lol

Start your lessons now..If you have not toughened up, wear panti hose and you won't sore up your hide on that hunt. Really, I'm not joking, it works, but don't wear pink! ...

Buy a good quality leather saddle scabbard, put your sling in your coat pocket, take a light weight short rifle with a smaller scope on it like a 2x4 Leupold or old 3X is about perfect, not a club with rests and stuff all over it..Take a slicker and tie it behind your saddle, I like a 3/4 length..You would do well to buy a pair of light, quality chinks chaps, they won't get in your way, keep your legs real warm and dry, I wouldn't be caught dead without mine.

Those horses are just old gentle horses so you won't have any more problems than you create, just let them do their job, its what they do. Don't over load them with crap, go light.

Thats about all I can think off just off hand.

Mr. Atkinson,
Would most outfitters provide a scabboard? I had thought about that but figuring the weight and stiffness of packing one would seem to be a hassle for the travelling hunter. That's why I would have assumed the outfitter would provide one.

I'll be taking my .300 wsm but with a little larger scope attached.

As far as the chaps, again it's a weight issue (leather). Do they make light weight chaps? I know this sounds funny but I was sort of thinking frogg toggs with the middle split open (to sit easier on the saddle).

Talk to your outfitter. They will know what to expect and what you need.
Like Ray said let the horse do his job. Getting a good seat and being able to move with the horse is what you should be concerned with getting out of your lessons. See if your instructor will take you riding outside on trails. It will make a huge difference.

some outfitters will provide chaps and saddle scabbards but you never know what your going to get..I would get a pair of light weight "chinks", with the slick side of the leather out, they are very light and easy to pack...I would also take a saddle scabbard that fits MY gun..up to you, but its usually good advise..I ship my guns in the saddle scabbard inside my Tuff Case, never been a problem. don't get a cheap saddle scabbard, remember it protects your gun and it keeps YOU comfortable in the saddle during your hunt.