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How To Select the Best Used Western Saddles For Sale

Mon, 11 Jan 2010 06:41:56 +0000

If you are a rider or you are looking at getting back into riding, you may realize that the tack that you have isn't going to work and that you are going to need other options. However, the thing to remember is that tack is expensive if you purchase it new, so why not look into getting it used? The saddle that you need is likely going to be the most expensive item that you are looking for, but if you know what to look for, you can still get a quality saddle used. When you are interested in Western riding, you will find getting a good used Western saddle for sale is going to be easier than you think. If you are looking for a good used Western saddle for sale, there are a few things that you need to look into. Remember that a saddle is an important piece of tack and that having one that is too worn can be dangerous to both you and your horse. While some scruffs and scrapes are fine, you also need to make sure that the structural integrity of the saddle itself is something that you can judge for yourself. For instance, take a look at the saddletree. The saddletree is the foundation of a saddle, and to test it, set the saddle on the fork with its nose towards the ground. Press down on the cantle and twist, and if it bends, let the saddle go. A broken tree is a disqualifier right off the bat. When you are looking for a good used Western saddle for sale, remember that you should check out how well the leather has held up. If a saddle is made of good leather, you will find that it is going to feel soft and supple to the touch. If the leather is thin and cracked, you will find that it will not keep its shape and that the life of the saddle is going to be significantly shortened. You will find that if you are buying a used saddle with poor leather, you are not going to have it for very long. If the leather is curled, remember that it is not going to go back to the way that it was. If you are looking for a great used Western saddle for sale, remember that you need to expect some wear on the underside fleece. If the wear is too great though, you will likely need to get the fleece replaced, which is not going to be cheap at all. Also make sure that you check to make sure that the wear on the fleece is even; uneven wear might mean that the saddle is going to sit uncomfortably on the horse or that the saddle is made poorly. Take some time and make sure that you are going to be able to find a Western saddle that is going to suit you and your horse. A good saddle, even if it is used, can last you for years, so make sure that you know what you are looking for.

Used 15 Natural Western Show Horse Leather Saddle Tack

US $225.00 (0 Bid)
End Date: Friday Sep-10-2010 13:15:41 PDT
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15" WESTERN CORDURA TRAIL BARREL PLEASURE SADDLE PINK

US $299.99
End Date: Friday Sep-10-2010 13:17:49 PDT
Buy It Now for only: US $299.99
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Western Saddles: 7 Inspection Tips For Buying Used

Sun, 03 Jan 2010 07:05:36 +0000

When you're looking for a quality western saddle, a used saddle can be a smart choice. The best saddles will last a lifetime with proper care. So, like luxury cars, a quality used saddle can be more aptly described as previously-owned. You can buy a lot more saddle for your money in the used category. But buying used requires close inspection of the saddle prior to buying. A used saddle is bound to have some wear and some scuffs and scrapes. That's to be expected. What you're really looking for are structural problems. The following are the top 7 used saddle inspection tips. 1. Saddle Tree. The saddle tree is the foundation of a saddle, so if it's not solid nothing else matters. To test the tree, set the saddle on its fork, nose down. Press down hard on the cantle and twist, looking for bending which is an indication of a broken tree. A broken tree is a deal breaker. DO NOT purchase a saddle with a broken tree. 2. Leather Quality. High quality leather will be thick, soft, and supple. It has a much longer life, especially if well cared for. Low quality leather will be thin, often cracked, and will not keep its shape. Avoid buying used saddles with low quality leather. There's no bargain there. 3. Leather Condition. Check whether the jockeys and skirts lie flat or curl up. Curling is a sign of either poor quality leather or leather that is used-up. It's pretty much impossible to get curled leather to lie flat again. If the leather looks to be of good quality (thick, doesn't curl), but looks dried out, a good cleaning and conditioning can do wonders and bring back a lot of its luster. 4. Underside Fleece. Expect to find a good amount of wear and dirt here, but excessive wear may require having the fleece replaced which isn't cheap. Also, uneven wear can be a sign of a badly designed saddle that doesn't fit well and should be avoided. 5. Stitching. Check the stitching to make sure it's intact. Minor problems can be repaired, but a saddle with a lot of rotting and missing stitching should be avoided. 6. Surface. While a quality saddle can last a long time, the care it receives will impact its lifespan and its appearance. Saddles are made to be used and passing on a quality used saddle because of some scratches and scuff marks is a mistake. But, you'll have to determine what you can live with. 7. Parts Inventory. Do a check to see which parts might be missing. Most parts (stirrups, stirrup hobbles, billets, cinches) can be easily replaced (and many will prefer their own choices anyway), but missing parts should factor into the price. Buying a used saddle can be a very smart choice, IF you carefully inspect the saddle prior to purchase.

Saddle Bronc Rodeo Cowboy Wood Dbl. Switchplate Western

US $28.95
End Date: Friday Sep-10-2010 13:36:10 PDT
Buy It Now for only: US $28.95
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Saddle Bronc Rodeo Cowboy Wood Dbl. Switchplate Western

US $27.00
End Date: Friday Sep-10-2010 13:36:10 PDT
Buy It Now for only: US $27.00
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What is a good brand used western saddle for trail riding?

Sun, 29 Nov 2009 15:56:11 +0000

I have many years experience riding english sport horse disciplines, but have NO experience with western. I know that purchasing a good quality, used saddle is much better than buying a new, cheaper saddle. Can anyone tell me some good brands? I am looking to spend no more than $300.00, but I don't mind the age of the saddle; as long as it's sound.

WESTERN TREELESS SADDLE PAD MEMORY FOAM AND ANTI SLIP

US $65.00
End Date: Friday Sep-10-2010 13:22:35 PDT
Buy It Now for only: US $65.00
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18" WESTERN LEATHER TRAIL SHOW PLEASURE SADDLE CARVED

US $369.99
End Date: Friday Sep-10-2010 13:23:45 PDT
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Used Western Saddles: Finding the Right Saddle for the Right Price

Tue, 24 Nov 2009 06:20:51 +0000

Buying a used western saddle is often a great choice. Quality saddles maintain their value over time, so you can buy top brand previously owned saddle for the same price as you would a lower quality new one. Your dollar goes a lot farther in the used market and a good quality saddle fits both you and your horse better than something cheaply manufactured.

High quality leather western saddles are usually well cared for, so when they're sold they’re often in great shape. Sure, most used saddles will have a scuff here and there, but that adds to their character. It shows they’ve been put to the test and they’ve held up to the rigors of riding, unlike some of the poorly constructed new saddles out there.

During your search, take the opportunity to try as many different types, brands, and models of saddles as you can. This will help you narrow down the choice of what will suit you best. Of course, a saddle needs to fit the horse too, so keep that in mind.

So where should you start looking? Start anywhere there are horses. Horse owners and stables may be thinking of changing a saddle they have or making space by selling one they’re not using. You’d be amazed what you can find just by asking. If the place or person you visit doesn’t have a used saddle for sale, they may know someone who does.

Look first for used western saddles in places where you can see, touch, and inspect them. Look in tack shops or stores selling western tack. Just because a store sells new items doesn’t mean that they don’t have used tack. Plenty of people upgrade their western saddles and many tack shops will take a used saddle in as a trade in. Some tack stores also have used saddles for sale on consignment.

Local used tack sales can be a great source for used saddles. Keep an eye out for sale announcements by local horse groups and at horse shows and other events. Check the newspapers and the local classified publications.

The Internet is also a fantastic place to find a quality used western saddle. On the Internet you're not limited to just your local area which significantly opens up your potential choices. Online sales sites such as eBay, TackTrader. com, and Equine. com provide a wide selection in the used market. Many tack stores also have websites and list their used tack for sale online.

In the online world, a picture says a thousand words, reading the small print matters, and asking questions is a must. You usually won’t be able to inspect the saddle before you buy, so make sure you have detailed photos and find out as much as you can prior to buying. Some sellers will give you a try-out period so make sure to ask. Watch out for shipping costs as well – you could get a great bargain on a top-of-the-line saddle but pay a pretty penny to get it from there to here.

When trying to track down the perfect used saddle, take your time. Figure out what you need and don’t buy on impulse or because something is a bargain. Your main goal is to get a durable, solid quality western saddle that fits you and your horse the best. You’ll save money in the long run, and your horse will thank you for taking the time to pick the perfect saddle.

GAITED 16" WESTERN ENDURANCE LEATHER HORSE TRAIL SADDLE

US $249.99 (0 Bid)
End Date: Friday Sep-10-2010 13:14:28 PDT
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