I was cleaning my western saddle getting it ready to take to the barn when I noticed the stitching had come undone around the rigging on both sides. If I was to cinch it up it would completely fall apart. I have called a couple of places to see if they would do repairs and I’m bringing the saddle to one place next week for an exact quote. The saddle is between 50-60 years old and was given to me by my dad’s friend before he died. Would you fix something like that or would you just use that money for a newer saddle?
If it’s a well made, well balanced saddle and will fit present-day horses, I’d absolutely have it repaired.
Also, do you LIKE the saddle and does it suit YOU?
If you like it, fix it.
I need to get my saddle fixed right now. They don’t make them anymore (blue ribbon cutback) it’s at least 20 years old (I’ve had it for 15 years & got used). Since I don’t want a deep seat, sticky leather saddle, repair is the way to go.
The spare I’m riding in now is a Barnsby that is probably 40+ years old.
Since you’re in Lexington, give Fennell’s a call. They usually fix English saddles, if they can’t fix yours, they probably know someone who can.
If it was a low end saddle 50 years ago it’s probably better than some middle grade saddles today but is still a low end, 50 year old saddle.
If it was a better quality saddle 50 years ago than I’d at least get an estimate on repair.
G.
It’s a triple h saddle (not hhh), I think it’s a trail saddle. The tree is solid and it does fit my TB. I wish the seat had a little more padding and the flocking is a bit flat. Unfortunately during storage it had shifted and was laying on it’s side, so much of the.leather has been bent in the wrong direction.
