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New Tack or Existing ?
At times a controversial subject , the issue of buying your new horse or pony ’ s existing saddle and bridle with your new purchase is an interesting topic to discuss . Here the Society of Master Saddlers offer advice on the pros and cons of buying the tack if it is available when buying a new horse or pony .
BEFORE getting into the depth of the discussion , the overall aim with any saddle and bridle is that they fit the horse or pony correctly .
If you can be sure the tack has been fitted by a Society of Master Saddlers ’ Qualified Saddle Fitter and that is has been checked regularly this should at least allay any major concerns .
Even if this is the case , and you go-ahead and buy the tack , it is always worth getting your own Qualified Saddle Fitter to visit your yard once the horse or pony has arrived and before you get underway with riding and training .
Don ’ t automatically assume that the saddle fits - although there is no excuse today for using ill-fitting tack , the seller may not have a great deal of knowledge when it comes to correct saddle fitting and they could simply be using a saddle they already had when they bought the horse in the first place .
Unfortunately a buyer caught in this type of situation often tends to be fairly novice and may simply assume the deal they are getting is a good one !
There may be situations where the seller blatantly takes advantage of a first-time buyer and in these cases The Society of Master Saddlers would encourage those new to horse ownership to take a more experienced person with them .
As well as making sure the saddle and bridle fit correctly , also take the time to make sure the tack is in good condition .
Over the years there have been many instances where a Society of Master Saddlers , Qualified Saddle Fitter has been to check the saddle for owners of a new horse or pony and come away very disillusioned .
It can often be the case that the new owner was thrilled to bits when the seller informed them they were providing the tack as well to help them out .
But in many instances the tack can be scratched and very well worn , with even some of the stitching loose and the girth being used too long .
Similar instances include stirrup leathers not being a pair and saddle flocking that has become flat , hard and lumpy .
Such cases definitely put a different perspective to the saying ’ never look a gift horse in the mouth ’!
The stories often involve dishonesty and a certain stretching of the truth but problems can also occur even when a seller ’ s intentions are totally honest .
In an ideal situation it is sensible to have all tack , and the fitting , checked by a Society of Master Saddlers ’ qualified fitter – but they will obviously expect to charge a fee .
What happens if the saddle and / or the bridle don ’ t fit – or need substantial repairs ? These are extra costs that won ’ t have been expected , and therefore considered , at the time of the purchase !
Buying a horse or pony ‘ complete with tack ’ often represents good value and can be hassle-free – but it is a purchase that should never be entered into on the assumption that everything will be alright .
Information about the Society of Master Saddlers can be found on the website : www . mastersaddlers . co . uk or telephone 01449 711642 .
ISSUE 36 • AUGUST 2018 • EVERYTHING HORSE MAGAZINE 13