Spring Tack Check Over

Even if it doesn't feel like it, spring is right around the corner; it is time to clean and check over the tack. When you are checking over your tack, look for broken hardware (buckles, D rings, etc) and frayed or worn leather. I will go over how to clean and oil your equipment and where to look for broken or frayed peaces.

Oiling your saddle should be done two to three times a year: once in the spring, once in the summer, and once in the fall/winter. Before you oil your saddle, it needs to be free of dirt and dust. Take a light bristle brush and brush the dust off. After the majority of the dust and dirt is off, you can take a damp sponge or rag and wipe the whole saddle down. Make sure to get under the skirt and the fender. Now let it dry (Note: Don't let it dry in the sun. This could cause cracks in the leather). After it is dry, which could take 20 minutes to an hour, it is ready to oil. You will need leather oil and a rag or sponge. Put some oil on the rag and smear the oil evenly on your saddle leather. Get all the places you can reach. If you oil your saddle correctly, it should last longer than a lifetime.

When caring for your saddle, look for frayed and worn spots. If there are any faults, they need to be replaced. Anyplace where leather goes through a buckle, D-ring, O-ring, snap or any other metal part, should be checked. If you do not check these things, your saddle could detach from your horse with you in it. Ouch!!

Another thing you should check is all the metal hardware. The most common things are snaps on reins, lead rope snaps and also buckles. These things can break by being stepped on or even just continuous use.

I hope you got a good idea on how to care for and check over your tack. If you have any questions or comments, please let me know.