Post by horsespoiler on Jun 22, 2013 4:17:08 GMT -5
I picked up a used TexTan saddle at a garage sale the other day. If I am reading the serial number right it is from 1965 and a model 1300. I have sent an email request to TexTan for any information they might have about the saddle. Everything seems to be in good working condition and the saddle was obviously well used but also cared for. The leather is flexible with no signs of cracking or rot. I have saddle soaped it twice, using half a can, and pulled out a lot of dirt. It seemed fairly clean and I have applied 2 coats of Leather New. When I try buffing it the towel is picking up dark brown residue. The saddle is dark but it isn't black. The surface is not slick and shiny as I had thought it would be when cleaned. Have I not got this right? If it had been over-oiled before being stored would I need to do even more cleaning? Or have I not applied enough Leather New conditioner? There are a few areas where the leather shines and is smooth, on the seat near the pommel and along the back of the cantle. I also wonder if it was dyed since a few hard to access and see areas seem to be slightly lighter. Any help on cleaning and conditioning saddles would be appreciated. My only saddles have been synthetic and a wet cloth takes care of those.
The seat is a 15" one, a bit snug for me but should fit my DH for now. The gullet is over 7" and should fit all our horses. This is not the saddle I have been looking for but will do for now while I look and save for the right saddle. I don't think I overpaid at only $125. I can always resell it or keep it as an extra in case we have a visitor. The fleece is in good shape and it even has all the strings. It has flat plate rigging with 2 positions up front and a flank cinch attachment. I need a billet and off billet for it but we have lots of extra cinches, I don't know why.
The seat is a 15" one, a bit snug for me but should fit my DH for now. The gullet is over 7" and should fit all our horses. This is not the saddle I have been looking for but will do for now while I look and save for the right saddle. I don't think I overpaid at only $125. I can always resell it or keep it as an extra in case we have a visitor. The fleece is in good shape and it even has all the strings. It has flat plate rigging with 2 positions up front and a flank cinch attachment. I need a billet and off billet for it but we have lots of extra cinches, I don't know why.
