DG Stackhouse
Custom Close Contact
Close Contact Saddles
Manufacturer: DG Stackhouse
Model: Custom Close Contact
Category: Close Contact Saddles
Purchase: I purchased this custom close contact saddle directly from the saddle maker for $5200. Within 4 months of purchase, the saddle no longer fit. I called Mr. Stackhouse to see what he could do to help me. He first recommended that I continue to lightly ride my horse in a saddle that made him sore and see if his shape would return to a narrow. Then he said the narrow tree should be changed to a medium. His "usual" charge to change the tree is $2200, but for me, he said he would discount his price to $1500. In consulting with 2 local saddle fitters, their fees came in under $500 to change a tree. The cost of purchasing a tree from mr. Stackhouse is $250.
Likes: Given my experience with Mr. Stackhouse, I am having difficulty finding anything positive to say about this saddle. If the saddle had been a good fit then I might comment on the fine hand stitching of the saddle.
Dislikes: I believe the customer service is severely lacking. Stackhouse gets very impatient when if you ask any questions and feels that any reliance on other equine professionals regarding saddle fit(i.e my equine chiropractor who happens to also be a certified saddle fitter of British training) is an affront to his perceived professional status.
Additionally. I think this is a very heavy saddle. I think there is significant room for improvement in the comfort factor for the rider. My horse doesn't think it is comfortable, either.
Quality: When I received my new David Stackhouse custom saddle, it arrived with a tack protruding under the leather on the left side of the pommel. If you looked directly at the front of the saddle, one flap was pulled away so that you could see the white felt-like material used between the pieces of leather.
Summary: I would NOT recommend this saddle to anyone. At $5200 this saddle is over priced, not particularly comfortable for the rider and an absolute nightmare if you are looking for good customer service.
Rating: 1
Author: REALLY DISAPPOINTED
Date: 2010-04-16
Usefulness Rating: 4.30137 out of 5.
73 reader(s) voted.
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