Here's another saddle thread by me..I promise they are going to end soon.

[Horseaholic]

I've decided that I'm going to really try to research Used Bates close contact saddles (although i have this silly urge to buy it new but everyone warns against it) I'm afraid of buying used over the internet because of possible damage I can't see. I don't particularly live in or around towns that have tack shows or anything like that so I'm kind of at the fork in the road. Any suggestions for buying used saddles over the internet? Thanks in advance.

[cloedoll]

I have to buy all my riding tack (bridle, bit, reins, girth, martingale, saddle, saddle pads, etc.) over the internet without even seeing them in person once - I know how ya feel. Why are people saying to not buy a brand new Bates? o.0 I would definitely check eBay and make sure the seller has a return policy so you can check to make sure it fits, is in the condition the seller claims it is, no broken tree, etc. Also check UsedSaddles.com (http://www.usedsaddles.com) - they let you try the saddle before you buy.

[Horseaholic]

thanks cloedoll. Everyone says not to buy a new bates because it will suck to break it in :( Idk what to do.

[cloedoll]

It'll be new and purdy, though! Lol, I think all leather saddles suck to break in, no way around it. If you post what seat size you need, color, model, etc. I can check around eBay and stuff for you. =)

[Horseaholic]

your so niceee. I need a 17 seat and long flaps I want the bates close contact. (Color doesn't really matter to me THAT much) I found one thats only been ridden in 3 times for 1200 on this random website that I'm leaning towards. I'm at work so I can't find the site right now

[cloedoll]

Here is one I found:

http://www.usedsaddles.com/product.htm?id=qcvh4088 (http://www.usedsaddles.com/product.htm?id=qcvh4088)

It says the flaps are regular, but they clearly look like long to me. That site (UsedSaddles) is an awesome place! Check out the "About Us," and "FAQ" page - those will explain the trial period information and stuff. ;D

[Horseaholic]

http://www.mmtackshop.com/batescaprilli.html here is the saddle i found thats new but "used" basically
yeaa I was looking at this saddle too but once I saw regular I was disappointed. I was thinking they looked long too. I'm going to email them to double check.