For those of you who have had experience with these saddles, what would you recommend for a newbie? Brands, seat size, particular saddles specs, etc? Overall opinions.

Thanks much! 

I had a Teskey's Ranch Cutter and absolutely loved it; however, it was heavy (43 lbs.).  I'm old with an arthritic back and began having trouble lifting it onto my horse so I sold it back to Teskey's and bought a McCall's McLite all-around saddle which I also totally love. It weighs 25 pounds. 

What size seat did you go with, if you don't mind me asking? I ride in a 15" in most saddles and feel comfortable, but know you typically size up some for a ranch cutter or cutter. 

My "silver" show saddle is a 16 in. but the Ranch Cutter was a 17 in. My McCall's is a 16.5.