I need a new hunt bridle, and I do appreciate spending more money up front to get quality tack that will last with appropriate care. That said, where can I get the best value for the money? The options I’m looking at are:
The Old Habit, where I have about $70 in credit to use http://www.oldhabit.com/shop/index.cgi?cart_id=9359325.12644&id=25
Horse Country - how much of a difference is there in the usefulness and attractiveness of the First Flight, Second Flight, and Hilltopper lines? There is an explanation in the catalog, but I’d like to ask someone who has seen and used them IRL.
Then there’s Bartville Harness, which would be by far and away the least expensive. I have heard good things about their products. Should I spend more and order from Old Habit or Horse country? Can I save money and still get an attractive, well made bridle from Bartville?
Input from those who have seen/used any of these IRL would be much appreciated.
Thanks!
of letter and phone for custom orders. I got a hunt noseband (I have a “franken-bridle” assembled from parts from four different makers) and it’s extremely well made. He also made me a sandwich case (in black, no less) that is absolutely gorgeous. And Bartville’s lined stirrup leathers with roller buckles are the absolute best at any price (and other shops sell them at quite a mark-up).
Citydog, I was laughing when I read your post - I’d already marked the lined stirrup leathers in the catalog! Definitely getting a pair of those. I measured the old (too small) bridle tonight, with the Bartville catalog in hand, and fortunately I need an oversize in each of the parts, so I won’t have to order pieces separately.