Description

17″ Thorowgood T4 Compact GP MGC Black Adjustable Saddle

The 17-inch Thorowgood T4 Compact GP MGC is a versatile general-purpose saddle designed with a compact rider profile and adjustable fitting options in mind. This pre-owned black model features a synthetic construction, SIMA R-Bar tree and wool-flocked panels, making it a practical option for riders looking for a lightweight saddle for everyday riding.

Its adjustable gullet system allows the tree width to be changed as required, while the wool flocking provides your saddle fitter with scope for minor fitting adjustments.

With its deeper seat, slimline panels and compact proportions, this model may be particularly appealing to riders with narrower hips or a smaller frame.

Saddle Specifications

A Compact General-Purpose Saddle

The T4 Compact GP MGC is designed for riders who want a saddle that can be used across a range of everyday activities.

Its GP configuration makes it suitable for general riding, while the compact shape can be useful for riders who find some larger saddles feel too substantial beneath them.

The saddle features a slightly flatter tree and slimline panels, helping create a closer connection between horse and rider.

It can be considered for activities such as:

• Hacking
• Schooling
• General flatwork
• Leisure riding
• Riding club activities
• Everyday riding

The suitability of any saddle ultimately depends on the individual horse, rider and intended use.

Adjustable Gullet System

One of the main advantages of this Thorowgood model is its adjustable tree.

The saddle uses interchangeable gullet bars, with the stated range covering:

Narrow Medium → X Wide → XX Wide

This gives the saddle some flexibility when a horse’s shape changes over time.

Changes in:

• Fitness
• Weight
• Muscle development
• Workload
• Seasonal condition

can all affect a horse’s back shape.

An adjustable saddle may therefore provide useful flexibility, but the correct gullet should always be determined through proper saddle fitting rather than selected solely from a measurement chart.

Wool-Flocked Panels

This model is fitted with wool-flocked panels.

Wool flocking gives a qualified saddle fitter the ability to make appropriate minor adjustments to the panel where required. This can be useful when fine-tuning the saddle to an individual horse.

Because flocking and saddle fit are highly individual, any alterations should be carried out by an appropriately qualified professional.

Designed With the Rider in Mind

The 17-inch T4 Compact GP MGC has several features intended to provide a supportive and comfortable riding position.

The design includes:

• A deeper seat
• Soft padded knee roll
• Adjustable Velcro knee blocks
• Adjustable calf blocks
• Dual flaps
• Slimline panels
• Close-contact construction
• Variable girthing options

The repositionable blocks allow riders to adjust their support according to their leg position and personal preference.

The 17-inch seat may be worth considering for petite riders or riders with narrower hips, although seat size should always be selected according to the individual rider rather than height or body type alone.

Flexible Girthing Options

The saddle includes variable girthing arrangements designed to provide flexibility when positioning the girth.

A movable third girth strap can be used in conjunction with the available balance options where appropriate.

Correct girthing can influence how securely and evenly a saddle sits, but the ideal configuration will depend on your horse’s conformation and the saddle’s position.

A saddle fitter can help determine the most suitable arrangement.

Is This Saddle Suitable for Your Horse?

This particular T4 Compact GP MGC is described as having a standard wither profile and a slightly flatter tree.

It may therefore be worth considering for horses with:

• A standard wither
• A relatively conventional back profile
• A suitable back length for the saddle
• A shape compatible with the R-Bar tree

However, these descriptions should only be used as a starting point.

A saddle that fits one horse of the same breed or type may not fit another.

Your horse’s back shape, shoulder movement, wither clearance, musculature and the rider’s balance should all be considered.

Saddle Fitting Advice

Correct fitting is one of the most important considerations when purchasing a second-hand saddle.

Before using this saddle regularly, we recommend having it assessed by a qualified saddle fitter.

A professional assessment can look at:

Wither clearance

There should be appropriate clearance and freedom around the withers.

Tree width

The tree and gullet configuration should correspond to your horse’s individual shape.

Shoulder freedom

The saddle should allow appropriate shoulder movement.

Balance

The saddle should sit correctly rather than tipping excessively forwards or backwards.

Panel contact

The panels should make suitable contact with the horse’s back without creating inappropriate pressure points.

Rider position

Your position and balance should also be considered because a saddle needs to work for both horse and rider.

Used Condition

This is a pre-owned Thorowgood T4 Compact GP MGC saddle.

The supplied condition assessment describes it as being in very good used condition.

The noted signs of previous use include:

• Light wear to the left flap
• Light wear to the right flap

As with any second-hand saddle, there may be minor cosmetic marks associated with normal previous use.

We recommend examining the photographs carefully before purchasing so that you have a clear understanding of the saddle’s current appearance.

What Makes This 17″ Thorowgood Saddle Worth Considering?

If you’re looking for a used 17-inch Thorowgood saddle, this model offers several practical features in one design.

Compact proportions

The compact GP configuration can appeal to riders who prefer a less bulky saddle.

Adjustable tree

The interchangeable gullet system provides several width options.

Wool flocking

The panels can be assessed and adjusted by a qualified saddle fitter where appropriate.

Synthetic construction

The synthetic material provides a lightweight alternative to traditional leather saddles.

Versatile GP design

The general-purpose format makes it suitable for a variety of everyday riding activities.

Buying a Second-Hand Saddle Online

Buying a pre-owned saddle requires a little more consideration than buying a new model.

Before ordering, check:

• Seat size
• Tree type
• Gullet configuration
• Panel construction
• Flap length
• Saddle condition
• Serial number
• Photographs
• Return conditions
• Warranty terms
• Delivery arrangements

Most importantly, make sure the saddle is professionally assessed before being used regularly.

UK Delivery

Best Horse Saddle Shop ships saddles across the UK, subject to the delivery options available for the particular order.

We aim to process orders efficiently and provide customers with the relevant delivery information during checkout.

If you have already arranged a saddle-fitting appointment, we recommend allowing sufficient time between delivery and the appointment.

This gives you an opportunity to receive the saddle and arrange any necessary assessment before your scheduled fitting.

Returns & Warranty

Our return and warranty conditions apply according to the policies of Best Horse Saddle Shop.

Before placing an order, customers should review the applicable terms covering:

• Return periods
• Saddle condition requirements
• Refunds
• Warranty coverage
• Normal wear and tear
• Accidental damage
• Alterations
• Repairs

If you have questions about this particular saddle before ordering, contact our team and we can provide the available product information.

Frequently Asked Questions

What size is this Thorowgood saddle?

This model has a 17-inch seat.

What model is this saddle?

It is a Thorowgood T4 Compact GP MGC.

Is this saddle adjustable?

Yes. The saddle uses interchangeable gullet bars with the stated adjustment range of Narrow Medium, X Wide and XX Wide.

What tree does it have?

It features a SIMA R-Bar tree and is currently fitted with an M bar.

Is the saddle leather?

No. This model has a synthetic construction.

Does it have wool flocking?

Yes. The saddle has wool-flocked panels.

What type of horse could this saddle suit?

The model has a standard wither profile and slightly flatter tree. However, suitability depends on the individual horse’s conformation and must be confirmed through proper fitting.

Is this a new saddle?

No. It is a used saddle, supplied in the stated Grade 4 condition.

Is a 17-inch saddle suitable for every rider?

No. Seat size should be selected according to the rider’s individual proportions, preferred position and the saddle’s design.

Should I have it professionally fitted?

Yes. We strongly recommend professional saddle fitting before regular use.

Shop the 17″ Thorowgood T4 Compact GP MGC

If you’re searching for a 17-inch Thorowgood saddle with an adjustable tree, compact GP design and synthetic construction, this T4 Compact GP MGC is an option worth considering.

With its deeper seat, adjustable knee and calf blocks, wool-flocked panels and interchangeable gullet system, it offers a combination of rider support and fitting flexibility.

Check the photographs, specifications, condition and current Best Horse Saddle Shop policies before ordering.