Advice for bit on loan horse

[Rla5382]

Hi hope I can get some advice. I have just started loaning a horse after having 6 years off riding ... I used to own my own horse for 6 years prior to that .so slowly things are coming back to me. The problem I'm finding is the horse very low and on the forehand .. not too bad in trot mainly canter hes very strong and almost puts his head to his chest. I know this is a schooling issue which I'm working on with an instructor. Whilst this is ongoing and I build my core strength up to help me. Would you advise any bits to help me on my way whilst schooling he is currently in a 2 ring gag on snaffle rein so decided to try the verbindend universal on snaffle rein and although felt lighter at the front he literally had NO brakes!! Even in walk to halt he was just walking through my aids.. can anyone advise please any bits that may be suitable to help

 

[Meowy Catkin]

As he's on loan, maybe a discussion with the owner would help? They should be able to tell you why they have him in the gag and what other bits they tried and why they were not continued with.

 

[Rla5382]

As he's on loan, maybe a discussion with the owner would help? They should be able to tell you why they have him in the gag and what other bits they tried and why they were not continued with.

Thanks for reply. The owner has said he was always ridden in it from being young and she does a lot more fast work and jumping than me ... and she didnt feel she had enough brakes with anything else ..

 

[Shay]

Is the owner willing to let you change bits? They are ultimately responsible for the horse.

If they are then wait until this current madness is over and get a qualified bit fitter out to assess.

 

[teddypops]

Surely if you are using a gag on the snaffle ring only then it’s just a snaffle isn’t it? I use one on my very strong Welsh D x TB (at 29, I’m never going to change her) but I have 2 reins, one on the snaffle ring and one on the lower ring.