Bit Advice Needed

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NewbieHunterUSA

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11 September 2019
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Hello all from the USA! Could use some advice from you experienced lot!

I am new to Foxhunting - I took my horse on his first fox hunt this past Sunday. He was really excellent and I was super pleased with how he handled himself. At the recommendation of the staff, I did bit up before coming out. I put him in a happy mouth single joint Pelham, with separate snaffle rein and a curb rein.

My only complaint is that while standing at checks, he expressed his excitement by snatching at the reins, enough that it gave me a blister underneath my gloves. I would love to try something that he is a little more respectful of.

I welcome your suggestions.
 
Agree with Jellymoon on the bit - but if you had relaxed your reins would he have just stood? Some snatch so they can get their heads down and stretch thier necks. If he would have stood anyway I wouldn't fight him for it. If he would have bombed off - then try a jointed pelham - I like the myler ones - or a waterford.
 
Shay said:
Agree with Jellymoon on the bit - but if you had relaxed your reins would he have just stood? Some snatch so they can get their heads down and stretch thier necks. If he would have stood anyway I wouldn't fight him for it. If he would have bombed off - then try a jointed pelham - I like the myler ones - or a waterford.
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I have experimented with giving him a longer rein to see if he would stand relaxed. Instead, he uses it as an opportunity to take over, and decides to move off rather than standing still. If I keep him on a moderate rein length with a neutral contact, he will stand still, but expresses his impatience by snatching at the reins or pawing.

I did change to rubber reins and have upgraded my gloves, so that I will have some purchase when he does snatch at the reins. I will definitely look into the Waterford as well. Thank you for the suggestions.
 
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