Orders, Shipping & Returns

What is your return policy?

At Outfitters Supply we pride ourselves with providing high quality products for our customer’s packing needs.  As we want our customer to be satisfied with our products, please see below for our 30 day return policy.

Return policy:

  • Customer must provide proof of purchase from Outfitters Supply
  • Returned items must be in new condition and with original packaging.
  • Outfitters Supply does not issue refunds for used products.
  • Custom orders are non-refundable (i.e. Cut to Size: Straps, Webbing, Ropes etc.)
  • Returns must be shipped to Outfitters Supply at the customer’s expense or returned in store at the following address: Outfitters Supply, 7373 US Highway 2 East, Columbia Falls, MT 59912. If shipping your return, please include a note stating your your name, your order number and your reason for returning the item. Please state whether you would prefer a refund or you would like to exchange the item for a different item.   
  • Shipping costs are non-refundable.

     

    Do you ship internationally?

    We are more than happy to ship your order nearly anywhere in the world, although our website is not able to determine the charges properly at this time. If you need us to ship outside of the Continental United States, please call toll-free at 1-888-467-2256 or email us with a list of the items that you would like to order and your complete shipping address. We will happily provide you with your shipping options and costs. If you place an order, we will contact you for shipping charge approval prior to shipping your order. All orders must be paid in U.S. funds by international money order, PayPal, or by a major credit card. Please note that if fraud is suspected there will be a delay processing your order. We will only ship to addresses verified by PayPal or the holder's bank. Exchange rates are automatically calculated by your bank and are out of our control.

    Please note all orders from Outfitters Supply are shipped FOB.  You will assume ownership of the goods as soon as the shipment leaves our premises.  You will be responsible for any damage, loss, theft, customs fees, duty fees and delivery fees. If the package is returned to us for any reason, you will be liable for any return shipping charges incurred. 

    Do you offer expedited shipping?

    We are more than happy to accommodate most of your expedited shipping needs and can ship almost anywhere in the world. Please note that our website cannot determine international or expedited shipping charges correctly at this time. Contact us for shipping charges and options if you need expedited Next Day Air, 2nd Day Air shipping, or 3 Day Select Ground shipping.

    *Note: Because of our location, your order must be received by 12:00 pm Mountain Time to ensure overnight delivery. Please note that we cannot ship using expedited parcel services to PO boxes or APO/FPO addresses.

    Horse & Mule Packing

    I am new to packing, what do I need to get started?

    In the article “Packing Made Simple & Easy with our Knot-Free Pack System” we have compiled a list of horse packing products we offer that work together to create an easy-to-use, fuss-free pack system that will have you packing out on the trail in no time!

    How much weight can my horse carry?

    We often hear this question in reference to all manner of weight: the rider, the horse saddlebags, hornbags, pack loads, etc. There is no simple answer. Just like humans, some animals will be able to comfortably carry more weight than others and each animal needs to be evaluated individually. You must consider many factors, including the size and wight of the animal, the condition and health of the animal, the size, fit and weight of the trail saddle or pack saddle. Read our blog “How much weight can my horse carry?” for a complete list of factors you should consider, as well as tips for packing your load.

    What's the difference between a sawbuck and Decker pack saddle?

    Some differences between a Sawbuck Pack Saddle and Decker Pack Saddle are obvious. A Sawbuck has crossbucks made usually of oak or metal that form an X shape at the top of the saddle tree, while a Decker has metal arches. A Sawbuck Pack Saddle does not traditionally use a pack saddle cover known as a “half-breed” (or “1/2 Breed”) while a Decker style does. Lastly, most Sawbucks are “double rigged”, while a Decker Pack Saddle traditionally is “single rigged”.  Read our article "Sawbuck versus Decker Pack Saddle" for a comprehensive comparison of the different types of pack saddles, as well as details on the different features available for each.  

     

    How do I balance my load on a pack saddle?

    Whether you are packing a string of mules or loading your Western Saddle Bags, balancing your load is crucial. A balanced load will help protect stock from soring and muscle strain. They will also be more comfortable, which will help ensure their endurance and performance on the trail. Uncomfortable stock can act up. Indeed, a common cause of a wreck on the trail is the shifting of an unbalanced load. In the article "Balancing your Load", owner and founder of Outfitters Supply, Russ Barnett, discusses how to ensure your load is packed successfully.

     

    How do I choose the right pack saddle pad?

    Rule #1: Choose the right size
    We recommend that your pack saddle pad is a minimum size of 30"L x 44"W, which is about 14" wider than a riding saddle pad. This extra width provides necessary protection from a panniers or manties rubbing or banging on the pack animal's sides.

    Rule #2: Choose the proper thickness
    A pack pad is usually thicker than a saddle pad, averaging 1-1.5" thick. However, just because one inch is good, doesn't mean that two inches is better. You do not want a pad that is so thick that the pack saddle no longer fits well. A very dense pad, such as the 5 Star Mountain Packer, has plenty of thickness at 1⅛ because it deflects shock so well. If the outer material of the pad is mostly fleece, which compresses easily, you will want to make sure it has a fairly thick felt pad inside.

    Rule #3: Buy the best pad you can afford
    Look for pack pads that are built of materials that wick moisture, breathe well, and provide plenty of padding. We stand behind every pad we offer here, so you can buy with confidence, even with our least expensive pack pad offerings. The best pad on the market anywhere is the 5-Star Wool Felt Pack Pad, which is made of 100% virgin wool, so it will last a lifetime with the proper care.

    Rule #4: Do not double pad if you can avoid it
    It is too easy for equine pads to move against each other and for one or both of them to wiggle out from beneath the saddle. Used in conjunction with a good pack saddle, a single, well-made pack pad of adequate size and thickness will provide all the protection needed against any saddle sore that could make the going tough on your stock. And we all know that you had better take good care of your stock...because it can be a long way out on foot.

    Trail Riding

    What is the best way to load my saddlebags?

    When loading your western or endurance saddle bags on your saddle, having equal size, equal weight and equal weight distribution of your saddlebags is vital. Remember, your saddlebags are dead weight and, therefore, cannot adjust themselves in the saddle like a rider.  Read our full blog “Horse Saddle Bags: Packing For Success” for our suggestions on how to best load your saddlebags. 

    Horse Hobbles & Highlines

    How do I train my horse or mule to hobble?

    For your own safety and comfort and that of your stock, we highly recommend that you train your horses or mules to horse hobbles before going into the backcountry. In the article "Training you Horses and Mules to Hobble" we have outlined a very basic procedure that should quickly and easily accustom your horses and mules to hobbles. Regardless of whether you will be using two-leg hobbles or picketing your stock with a single hobble, the first step will be essentially the same.

    How do I set up a highline?

    A highline is simply a length of rope stretched between two trees to which you have tied your stock. Included in any highline kit should also be a pair of Tree Saver Straps. Most areas, especially wilderness areas, are requiring the use of tree saver straps around the trees to prevent them from being girdled by highline ropes. Additionally, to make them easier to use, our TrailMax™ Highline Kits include the Original TrailMax® In-Line Swivel. This offers a quick, easily installed tie up spot for each animal and the In-Line Swivel ensures that the load rope will not get twisted up tightly or completely unraveled.  We discuss exactly how to set up a highline in our blog "Highlining a Horse or Mule".  

     

    Pack Saws & Axes

    How do I hang a pack saw on my saddle?

    One sure way to secure a saw to your riding saddle is to tie the pack saw handle with the rear saddle strings and then secure the blade under your leg. However, the pack saw scabbard has a versatile design that would allow you many options. Whichever way you choose, remember to offset the added weight of your saw by loading your horse saddlebags or horn bags heavier on the opposing side.

    Why do I need to carry a pack saw or a camp axe with me on the trail?

    The obvious answer here is for windfall blocking the trail. It is not always possible to go around a windfall, nor would you necessarily want to get into that habit; the new trail you would create only adds to the erosion of a potentially fragile area. It is better instead to simply clear the trail.  Read the article "Pack Saws and Camp Axes" for a full explanation of why it is so important to carry a pack saw when you are out on the trail.