There is a thriving market in used saddles, both in your local area and online. Saddles may be sold for a variety of legitimate reasons including poor fit of the saddle to the horse or rider, trading in for a newer or different style saddle, losing interest in the activity etc. This results in many bargains in good, used saddles. So what are the advantages and disadvantages of buying a used saddle?
Your Budget
Firstly of course the cost. Saddles are expensive and it makes sense to buy a good used saddle if you do not have the budget for a new saddle. It is not really possible to buy a good new saddle under $500. Saddles below this price are poor in quality and construction. If you cannot afford more than this it makes more sense to buy a good used saddle than an inferior new saddle that will not fit correctly and will not last very long. Well made saddles can give years of service, lasting as long as 30 years so a used saddle will still have many years of useful life.
If you can afford around $700 for your used saddle you can purchase an excellent saddle from a very good manufacturer or even custom made saddles.
Places to find Used Saddles for Sale
1. Saddle shops often have used saddles for sale or can put you in touch with local residents with saddles for sale.
2. Local markets, fairs, horse shows, agricultural shows
3. Newspapers advertisements
4. Online websites
Checking out the Used Saddle
A careful inspection of the used saddle is. of course, necessary before purchasing a used saddle. For a local purchase
that it easy but if you are buying inline how can you ensure the quality of the saddle? Detailed pictures and information should be provided by the seller and always ask for more information if you need it. You should be able to get enough information to make an informed decision.
Inspecting a Used Saddle
1. Test the tree. Is the tree still in good shape? With the saddle nose down press on the cantle and check for any bending which will indicate that the tree is broken. Never purchase a saddle that does not pass this test
2. Check that stirrups, saddle strings etc are included in the price.
3. Check that the skirts and jockeys do not curl as this is indicative of worn out or poor quality leather. Is the leather soft and supple or hard and cracked?
4. Is the stitching still in good shape? What about the fleece and tooling and hardware?
ideally you would ask for a trial period to test out the fit for both the horse and the rider. Some sellers may place restrictions in use during the trial period and will charge a returning fee. If you buy a used saddle online or at auction you probably will not be allowed a trial period.
A used saddle will always show some wear but there is no point in buying a saddle that shows excessive wear as it will not last for very long. A few scuffs and scratches are not important if the construction is still sound and the original craftsmanship good.
With care buying a used saddle can be the right answer when on a budget.
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