Bates
Caprilli
Close Contact Saddles
Manufacturer: Bates
Model: Caprilli
Category: Close Contact Saddles
Purchase: I acquired this item new at a local tack shop for $1500. I was currently leasing a broad-backed mare at the time, and I was looking for a saddle I could use on her and then fit to the horse I bought when the lease was over. Being unsure what type of back that horse might have, the easy change gullet system was a must.
Likes: I love the quality and durability of this saddle: I've used it almost every day for 2 years now and it still looks like new. The seat and knee rolls are very soft leather, and the saddle is comfortable. I do like the gullet system for occasional changes, and I know if my horse's back changes, I will be able to fit the saddle to her.
Dislikes: The easy change gullet system was not as "easy" as it was made to sound. The first time I changed the gullet, it took about 15 minutes (and that was with a helper). Now that I know what I'm doing, it is much quicker to switch gullets, but I still need a helper to hold the gullet plate holes in line with the screw holes of the tree. Although I like the changeable gullet system, if you are looking to change it frequently (like every other day for two different horses) I would say that it is too much of a hassle. If you can afford it, buy two saddles. Also, the screws may need occasional tightening, as they seem to loosen over time.
Quality: As I said above, the quality is excellent. The saddle is balanced, the leather quality is very good, and the stitching has never come loose. This saddle will last.
Summary: This saddle is well worth the price. I especially recommend it to those who may need a saddle to fit the next horse they ride, and don't want to have to invest in a new saddle for him.
Rating: 5
Author: Eventer13
Date: 2004-10-31
Usefulness Rating: 3.51852 out of 5.
27 reader(s) voted.
Other Reviews You May Find Interesting
Tad Coffin A5 Close Contact Saddles
Dover Circuit Big Be Close Contact Saddles
Collegiate Alumni Close Contact Saddles
County Symmetry Close Contact Saddles
Tekna Close Contact- Smooth Seat Close Contact Saddles
Beval Princeton Close Contact Saddles
Albion Close Contact/Legend Close Contact Saddles
Lovett & Ricketts Elan 16 " Buffalo - Wide Tree Close Contact Saddles
Wintec Close Contact / Caramel Close Contact Saddles
Campbell Close Contact English Saddle Close Contact Saddles
Pessoa Stadium Close Contact Saddles
Courbette Stylist DL Close Contact Saddles
Pessoa Gen X Close Contact Saddles
Collegiate Diploma Close Contact Saddle Close Contact Saddles
Kindcade Close Contact Saddle Close Contact Saddles
Dover Saddlery Elite XC Saddle Close Contact Saddles
Albion Close Contact Close Contact Saddles
Ovation Evolution XCH Close Contact Saddles
Mark Close Contact / Jump Close Contact Saddles
Intec Flex Rider FlexRider Close Contact Leather Close Contact Saddles
