Bit suggestions

Noodlejaffa

Noodlejaffa

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28 March 2006
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www.ailsamactaggart.co.uk
Posted earlier this year about bits for my youngster (4 years old). I was finding he was leaning on me while schooling (just think he was finding his balance), but was fine when jumping so tried him in a french link and have been getting on fine. He's much lighter on the flat.

However, now that he's out and about competing (xc and sj), I'm finding he's getting increasingly strong. Nothing too scary at the moment, but I know that once he's up to full fitness in the spring he's going to be a handful if I'm not prepared for it.

He's generally a well mannered horse, excellent to voice commands, but he's just discovering his own strength, I think!

Do you think it's worth trying a different bit on him? And if so, what?
 
I use a myler low prt comfort snaffle with hooks for XC with my boy now. Its stilll gentle, but has a more direct action without being harsh. Really find it works.
 
I was just going to post the same post!! Beau is on the last ring of a buddle bit and brakes are getting non existent. I did htink ti was justme, but everyone who has taken him XC has said that he is too strong. His riders instructor suggested a roller, someone else said a Swales (arent these rather harsh?).

KatB, would your bit be good for a horse that overbends?
 
A swales pelham, doesnt use any poll presure at all. It is a strong bit, but it is all so only as strong as the hands that are using it! I personally wouldnt use it on a youngster.
 
Hmm, well my boy can coil his neck to about 2inches long, but he doesnt tend to with the myler. It is not a strong bit, but it has a clear "pressure/release" action, so seems effective in keeping them listening. My boy always has a soft slobbery mouth after being ridden in it, and will stay in a consistant outline.
smile.gif
 
What about the Neueschule Universal? Would be the next step up from a french link. It has a lozenge mouthpiece with a choice of settings, the first and mildest being like a loose ring Baucher.

A lozenge baucher is another option, but has fized sides which you may not want if he has a tendency to lean.

you could get them from a bit bank and give them a try before you buy.
 
What about hanging cheek so it includes poll pressure? Just bought a hanging cheek with waterford mouth piece for mine off ebay for jumping, hunting and general fast work as he is stupidly strong, praying it'll work!
 
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