Bit Suggestions. Alternative to Waterford

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candyhorse

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Hello,
I ride a large 17.3hh Irish draught. He has been ridden in a french link snaffle and jointed snaffle, but was heavy on the hand in both. He was on his forehand and had very little respect, despite how much schooling and lessons I had. I just tried him in a waterford snaffle and he worked beautifully, relaxed, in a higher and lighter head carriage and really engaged his back end. For the first time he would respond to a gentle aid and I didn't feel like I was carrying him.

My concern is that I want to start dressage (he's capable of elementary) and the waterford is not dressage legal. Does anyone have a suggestion on what else to try? He has a huge tongue and needs something to lift his front end.

xx
EDIT* - He is upto date on dentist work and has had a saddle fitted correctly.
 
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I believe a NS Verb could give you the lift you require? I have no experience of this one though - it was my next bit to try with my mare who has some of the issues as your boy.

I ended up in a Ported Myler Snaffle - brakes, lift, quick response, listens - it's great. I think it is dressage legal too!
 
By NS Verb, do you mean the Verbindend? It looks good, but worry about the price if it turns out not to work :( . Unless you know of a cheaper alternative?

Wilkie Snaffle - Didn't think it was dressage legal? I wanted something to use in competition.
 
Neue Schule Verbindend could be worth a try - although my boy who also has a very large tongue didn't get on brilliantly with one - he actually prefers the Neue Schule Tranz-angled Baucher, which he is much happier in and definitely seems to help with elevation in front. :)
 
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