Bit of an issue...

[erinrowan]

Hello...I'm looking for a bit of advice. I currently show my pony, just at pony club level but she's got real potential to be a great little working hunter! I ride her in a wilky snaffle, which is great for flat work but when I jump she just flies off with no control - and workers is all about control and consistancy! I tried her in my friends dutch gag tonight and she was fab, but also have heard that Tom Thumb bits are good for strong ponies, has anyone ever used one and did it work for you? I'm not interested in using a pelham, she just leans on it.

 

[Lucy_Nottingham]

I THINK! but don't quote me on it, for owkring hunter's you are supposed to have double reins.... but I am not sure!

Maybe try a double bridle?! That way you can ride off the bradoon in the flat, but take a stronger pull if you need in the jumping?!

Tom Thumbs are good for strong horses/ponies but they are STRONG! but if you are soft with your hands then they are good! However, not sure how this might effect your flat work....

 

[KatB]

Tom thumbs arent that strong at all. They are much nicer than dutch gags (which I hate!) as they have nice short shanks but small rings so are a more direct action.

They are an "elevator" bit though. What does she do, is she just strong? Or does she rush her fences?

 

[erinrowan]

I'm not heavy handed, so know they'll be no issue there...just don't fancy being dragged around a course! ha ha! Polly is generally a strong pony, completely bomb proof but strong! And in the wilky she just rushes to the fence, then we tend to get our timing all wrong. I had a nosey on ebay at the Tom Thumb bits, they all seemed to be quite narrow - are they all like this?