All saddlery items need to be kept in good condition and regularly checked for safety and signs of wear and tear. It is best to do this during the cleaning of your saddlery items. You should check the stitching is sound and that the leather has not become cracked or thin, especially on the turns of the leather were the most wear and pressure is exerted. You should also check that all of the buckles and other fittings are secure and free from damage. Anything found to be requiring attention should not be used until it has been repaired, as if it breaks during use it could result in injury to either the rider, the horse or both. If you are unsure about any items or you would like Helen to check your saddlery items for safety please arrange to bring the saddlery items to the workshop to be assessed.
Repairs undertaken include:
- Saddle – Flocking, reseat, new tree, new girth straps etc.
- Bridle/Harness – Replacement fitting(s), shorten straps, replace keepers etc.
- Guncases/Gunsleeves – Rebay, reattach or replace handle, chape(s) or strap(s), reinforce the corners etc.
- Cartridge Bags/Boxes – Reline, reattach or replace handle or strap(s), rebind the edging etc.
- Hunting Whips – Recover the body, reattach or replace the lash
Below are examples of the type of repairs undertaken by HR Saddlery.