When it comes to saddle shopping, many of the great deals on used saddles seem to be online. While you can successfully buy a saddle online, there is some important information that you need to know. Before you start saddle shopping, think about the following if you’re going to go the online route.

Ask for a Photo of the Saddle Being Measured

Before you do anything else, ask the buyer to measure the saddle and photograph exactly how they do so. Buying a saddle that’s the wrong size will do you no good, and you would be surprised by the number of buyers who measure saddles in a non-standard way. An error in measuring could lead to a surprise when the saddle arrives; requesting a photo of how the measurement was taken can help to avoid this issue.

Request Specific and Detailed Photos

Once you’re satisfied that the saddle is the right size for you, ask for additional photos of specific areas of the saddle. You need to look for potential issues when buying a used saddle. You should always ask of photos of:

• The seat, taken looking down from above
• The underside of the saddle, showing the entire panels
• The billets on both sides
• The saddle from both sides

These specific photos can help you to spot potential issues or damage. Look to make sure that the billets are not damaged, and check the seat for warping or signs of uneven wear. Look at the undersides of the panels to make sure that the channel between them is straight and even – variation in this channel can signify a broken or warped tree. If evaluating a Western saddle, make sure that the fleece on the underside is even and not missing in patches.

Specifically Ask About Tree Soundness and Size

Asking direct and specific questions is key in knowing just what you’ll be getting in a saddle. Even if a seller has advertised the saddle as having a specific tree size, this factor is so important that it’s justifiable to ask the seller to recheck and verify the tree size, just in case. Additionally, ask the seller to check the saddle for tree soundness. Issues like flex in the tree or squeaking as the saddle is flexed may mean that the tree has been compromised. It is best to ask as many specific questions as you can. The more detailed information that you can get about the saddle, the better you will be able to judge if the saddle is the right one for you.

Use a Reputable Payment System

When buying a saddle online, never send a check or a money order. Instead, use a reputable payment system, such as Paypal. Paypal offers buyer protection, and in the event that the seller does not ship the saddle, or the saddle arrives not as described, you have a chance of getting your money back if you have used a system such as Paypal.

Since you can’t see the saddle in person, buying a saddle online takes careful vigilance to make sure that you will be happy with the purchase. As always, listen to your gut – if you sense that something is a little off with a saddle or a seller, then stay away.

Original Source: 4 Tips for Buying a Saddle Online