Bit help??

[Starbucks]

Hi,

I had very few brakes hunting last year in a loose ring snaffle, he has also been very strong TC and XC over the summer so I thought I better get some brakes sorted out!!

I have taken him hunting twice in an jointed American gag with two rains, which is great and I actually have brakes!

However, I do feel it is slightly more than I am comfortable riding him in, and I feel like I'm letting him do what he wants anyway because I don't want to hurt him.

I'm thinking just one rain on the main top part (the bit that the mouth piece is attached to) would be enough, but that would look a bit daft??

Any thoughts of bits that would work like this but actually be designed for that??

I've tried him in a dutch gag and that doesn't make any difference and a Cheltenham gag is a bit much for him..

Any idea's would be fab!

 

[Nari]

Personally I'd stick with the american gag & just be careful with my hands. You say you're worried about hurting him but just think of the damage he may do to himself (& possibly others) if you don't have enough control! IMO it's far better & kinder to use a strong bit lightly than be constantly hauling on a milder bit.

 

[rubyred]

http://www.thesaddleryshop.co.uk/product_info.php?products_id=973 and http://www.thesaddleryshop.co.uk/index.php?cPath=153_154_301 spring to mind to consider. The first would be my first thought as a step down from the american gag. The second I just like on a lot of horses

 

[Starbucks]

Thanks, he's not dangerous, more just very hard work and a pain in the arse!

He has also been known to go off on a tangent over fences, which normally involves jumping the big bit of hedge/wall when everyone else is jumping the gap - which has all worked out ok up until now but he doesn't know whats behind it!

I guess I will get used to it after a while. Just seems like a bit step up..?