subject: How To Select The Best Used Western Saddles For Sale [print this page] 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.
