Bit for Showing

[lizijj]

Hi, I need a bit for Ridden Hunter Class - Double or Pelham? Any recommendations on makes, they all seem to be so expensive 'nower days!? He is normally ridden in a lozenge snaffle with cheeks, is not usually strong, although when he went cubbing did get stronger.

Any advice gratefully received!

Thanks

 

[[59851]]

Depends on what he is comfy and goes best in. When I showed my cob I used a rugby pelham that gave the impression of a double bridle but with less metal in her mouth. She had a typical thick, fleshy, cob mouth though. If he has room for a double I would lean towards that as they really do look the part. Have a look on ebay - there are some bargain doubles on there.

 

[lizijj]

Thanks, he has a small TB mouth, so there lies my quandary...

 

[[59851]]

so maybe a rugby pelham with a slim, jointed mouthpiece.

 

[lizijj]

Thanks for that - will try it out - do you get marked down for not being in a double?

 

[[59851]]

Not that I've heard of. Are you going local or county?

 

[rhino]

Thanks for that - will try it out - do you get marked down for not being in a double?

Is it local/unaffiliated or affiliated? Novice or open class?

If you do go down the double route and she's happy with the bit she is in, try and get a french link bridoon to keep the mouthpiece the same Keep your eye open for local tack sales/car boots - I got my double bits pretty cheaply and they were brand new

 

[lizijj]

County and a HOYS qualifier :S

 

[rhino]

County and a HOYS qualifier :S

Double really is preferred. Do you know anyone with one you could borrow to try? What size is your beastie?

 

[Technique]

Where are you? I have a 5" double that I'm not using just now - if you're local to me (South London) I'm quite happy for you to have a try for a while

 

[SmallHunter]

A pelham or double is perfectly acceptable but if you go for a pelham use a show pelham they are neater.

 

[**Vanner**]

A rugby Pelham with a slip head will be more comfy for a small mouth

 

[lizijj]

Thanks all, and thank you for the offer of the double - I'm in deep, dark Cornwall so very kind of you - I'll try the Rugby Pelham I think

 

[LaurenB]

If the horse isnt strong like you say then I'd be tempted to try a double you can then just use the snaffle rein and leave the curb alone, where as if you go straight for a pelham you are going straight for a much stronger bit. I show at county level in both bits and never been suggested that a Pelham is incorrect and never heard that a double is more correct either. Hope this helps!
And yes bits are so expensive now a days! So if poss borrow before you buy!