MorganManiac

Gram's tack that came with the horses and barn looks really ratty and worn to me. I don't want anything to snap suddenly or otherwise cause any problems but I'm not sure what I'm looking for. Could some more experienced horse owners tell me what to look for that would tell me it's probably time to buy new stuff?

barnbum

There are a couple things to look for to make sure your tack is safe. Is the leather worn to the point it has holes or fittings wearing oddly. If the metal stirrup holders are wearing through its not safe. If there are cracks in the leather from lack of moisture or sun damage its also not a good thing. Is the stitching sturdy and solid or is it rotting/wearing/untied. Stitching should be sturdy when tugged on and not rotting from moisture or sun damage. Some things you can get repaired or replaced, and some damage can be fixed with care.

Flicka

Excellent advice. Especially about any cracked or worn leather. Sometimes connection points or pressure points can look ok, and you overlook where the leather is stressed and can split.

If you can afford it, you may want to start fresh with new tack.

haute_ecole

Definitely inspect it closely, as well as if it fits you and the horse. If not and you ned different tack, look into shops that offer consignment. They can sell your tack for a portion of the sale and also carry other used tack that could save you buying new stuff at a higher cost. Classifieds also can find nicely used tack. There are also tack swaps which can help you being one set of tack and come home with a different set.

countrygirl

A lot of great ideas here.
I just use common sense. If it looks ratty and worn and I have had it for awhile than it's probably time to replace it.