American gag bit?

annewright

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Joined
6 March 2008
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Has anyone got any information on having used an american gag - good or bad.
I need to find a bit that can stop my strong horse when out in company - beach rides and sponsored cross country rides.
Have him in a 3 ring dutch gag at the moment and struggle to hold him in it.
 
Try a Neule Schule universal bit, I tried soooo many bits on mine it was unbelievable. I couldn't hold him in a pelham/kimblewick/dutch gag with various mouthpieces. Fab bit
 
A universal is really only a modified 3 ring gag, however most continentals are single joint or french link, I think lozenges are superior as they fit the mouth and don't pinch or stab the roof of the mouth like a single joint and don't "rattle" and flop about like a french link.

As a rule of thumb, an american gag is technically stronger than a continental (if the horse responds to poll leverage). Only possible downside is that you need to use 2 reins for effective steering!
 
I am a big fan - could stop & steer my very enthusiastic eventer with ease, only needed a rubber mouth too as it is the length of the cheeks that seemed to make it work so well. They come in a variety of mouthpieces too HTH
 
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