Tack marking and recording your saddle

Make the record before choosing the mark

Create one record for each saddle and valuable item. CLA recommends photographs from several angles and details of distinctive features, size and existing damage. PSNI also recommends keeping serial numbers and using a police-approved property registration service.

Include the purchase receipt if available, where the item is usually stored and the date you last updated the record. Do not publish serial numbers or close-up pictures of identifying marks in a public sales or social-media post simply to demonstrate that you have made a record.

A useful inventory entry

• Item type, maker and model, where known.
• Size, colour and distinguishing features.
• Serial number or other identifying reference.
• Existing mark and its location.
• Photographs and the date taken.
• Owner's private contact information.

The security tool includes a printable record sheet. Keep a copy somewhere you can access if the tack room itself becomes inaccessible. Update it after selling or replacing equipment so your records stay useful.

Ask about marking locally

Wiltshire Police advertises tack-stamping support through its neighbourhood teams. Availability and arrangements elsewhere will differ: ask your own rural crime or neighbourhood team about local options. Speak to your saddler before applying a permanent mark to structural leather or hardware, particularly where you are uncertain about placement.

Marking and recording work alongside the room's physical security. A mark helps identify an item; it does not stop someone entering a building or establish ownership on its own.

This is general crime-prevention information from police and partner sources (checked 25 October 2026). For advice on your yard, contact your local police rural crime team.