Trying a pony for sale

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Eventinglife

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Hi there everyone!
So, I'm off horse hunting, and I've been looking for something 15-16.2 to event.
But I've recently found a 14.2 pony that fits the bill perfectly, and I really like the look of him. I won't be too big, so that's not an issue, but I just wanted some tips for trying a horse out when you're used to a big 16.2!
What are the sorts of differences between horses and ponies riding wise and how do I go about getting used to being on something a bit smaller? My current horse has tiny paces anyway so that shouldn't be too much of a problem!
Thanks!
 
The only issue for me would be that the striding for the showjumping and cross country will be long for a pony - that said some ponies have enormous strides. Its just something to be aware of when trying him - ponies are fab, so nippy and maneuverable :)
 
Do you have a friend's pony you can borrow firs to 'get your eye in'? It would be a shame if you rejected a good pony just because that was not the size you were used to and then regretted it later. If not then just make sure you take you time with the viewing and be conscious of your decision making and the reason for it. You can always view more than once if you are not sure.
 
Hi thanks for the advice. Sadly pony has just been sold, so it's back to the drawing board! Any tips for trying out event horses in general? Thanks!
 
Kassieg- I'm looking for a 15-16.2hh horse that has potential to go BE Novice and possibly Intermediate. 5-9 years old, and preferably have been out a few times sj and low level BE/xc. I'm quite happy to bring something on a bit if it's scopey and has a nice attitude.
It's been a while since I last went horse hunting, and my current mare came to me from a family friend, so I haven't tried a horse for a long time, and I'm not sure what to do!
 
Not eventing-specific but as a general tip for horse hunting, don't let the seller persuade you of anything you've not seen. That is, make sure you catch the horse yourself or see it being caught. Do pick the hooves, groom and tack up (try without tying...) yourself. I would also advise bringing feed to see how the horse behaves, and tying up a haynet for it. Rug and unrug. Tie the horse up outside and walk away to see how it is about that as well. Crossties too if you will ever use them. I would also ask to see the horse being lunged and ridden first - and then do both myself. And obviously, full vet check if you like the horse.

You'd be surprised how many annoying little problems people find a quick fix for... And the trouble is that sometimes they don't really think about it themselves. For instance, there was one very head shy horse whose owner had learned to bridle in a way that was very rapid and therefore prevented the horse from moving away to avoid the hands... But it also made the behaviour worse. So this poor horse could not even be patted on the forehead any more... But someone bought it because they saw it being tacked up in this rapid way and didn't realise there was an issue... Then had to deal with the result when a child freaked the horse out by trying to braid the forelock...
 
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Barnacle - thank you that sounds very sensible, and you'd be surprised how many people take owners' word for it that the horse can do something! Shocking!
Thanks for the tips guys, any others?
 
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