saddle trading

[andystevens]

My theory is if your building saddles you better know horses, try the horse for a week or a few rides and then make the decision if it is a good trade. I like the barter system at times its a good way to get you need or want and keep Uncle Sam out of the mix.

[kseidel]

He Steve, I've traded saddles for cows. Always figured if I could eat it it was a good trade. I hear some of you Canadians eat horse meat.......

Keith

[Bob]

OH ya, horse meat is the best.... Keith. Havn't you tried it yet??? With all the two bit american horses coming across the line. Thats about all they're good for. They taste just fine. As a matter of fact, after couple horse steaks, you begin to look over the fence an winney.... hehehehehea LOL

We're having a BBQ this weekend too and you're invited Keith...

[kseidel]

Thats great Bob!!! I needed a good laugh this Monday AM. Thanks for invitation.... I'll see if I can round up a nag or two!

Keith

[Todd]

Hey Steve,

Just took a 4 year old paint mare as partial trade for a Wade saddle. Have no real need for another horse (31 already) but it was the only way to get this particular looky-loo to finally bite the bullet and order a saddle. I basically took the mare as her deposit. I have ceased to be amazed what people will try to trade or barter for a saddle.

[Hidemechanic]

Steve,

I agree with Greg, if it pencils out, but keep other things in mind too.

I had an experience that went bad on me.

We tooking a horse as partial tarde on a show saddle. The horse represented X$, and they paid X$ for materials with X$ to be paid upon completion.

The intent and agreement first was that the saddle would be done in a few months(gave me a buffer) as it was a slow time for me, I figured I could devote more attention to this project.

The problem was they couldn't decide what siler they wanted and time went by amd ate up my buffer time. I didn't want to build too much ahead because the carving needed to be compatable with what ever silver I would end up putting on.

The next problem was that things started picking up and I had bills to pay so the trade saddle went to the back line, when the siver finally came in, the owners expected me to stop everything to finish thier saddle. Well that was a juggling act I don't want to get into again.

By the time I was able to get it worked in with other commitments,neither of us were happy about the deal. I origionally knocked off $250 for the delay(prior to finish) hoping they would be happier, but it didn't seem to help. By the time I was able to deliver it they still owed $250, but I decided the heck with it, I just wanted it done. So I put myself in a bad position that was hard to get out of and no one was happy.

I also like the idea of telling the trader to sell the horse and trade for cash.

I'm not saying don't do it, just be a better horse trader and quicker saddle maker than I am.