It seems that writing is a good occassion to learn about a variety of things. I must admit, other than hand guns and dog behaviour I wouldn't have a clue about anything you mention. Well, I know who John Wayne was, too.
But isn't your wife familiar with horses, horse equipment and so on? I really don't know much about it. All I can say is, that the part with the ears on it is the front. And that this saddle blanket looks terrible. Let me guess, the owner is a woman? :)