Bits for breaking....opinions

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naomisilv88

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What are people's views on the traditional breaking bit with the keys? With new information and developments in Bit manufacturing is all that metal still the best option for your young horses mouth??
 
Started mine with one but was them advised to use one without the keys as could make him fussy - mines in a sprenger d ring
 
I have never used one, I prefer to start with a simple french link or something like a happy mouth depending on the individual, most will mouth on anything as it is a new feeling to them, it is the hands at the end of the reins that is most important.
 
Be positive- your last sentence sums it for me too.

I start in a full cheek French link usually, but am very open minded about it all :)
 
I mouthed mine with keys and he seemed to like it, but he has moved onto a sweet iron french link with full cheeks. He likes the taste and the cheeks help with steering. He has a nice soft mouth and doesn't require a flash.
 
Agree with be positive's last sentence too. I like a full cheek French link sweet iron. But I think it's more down to personal preference and what suits the horse.
I tend not steer away from happy mouths as to me it's like going from 'nappy to potty to toilet' when a lot of children are happy enough to go straight to the toilet as they know no different :)
 
We usually always break in a French link fulmer. Have found keys do make them fussy in the mouth, so generally steer away, saying this, my 4YO is very fussy in the mouth and gets his tongue over the bit so i Have switched him to keys and he's much happier and relaxed.
 
I have found the keys lead to too much fussing and rolling of the bit. The ideal is for the horse to simply accept the bit, not be constantly mouthing at it, and to be quiet and still in the mouth (NOT dead). I showed one to a German friend and he laughed and said he had seen one once; in a museum. The key-mouth breaking bit is very old fashioned and the ideas behind it are outmoded.

I use an ordinary loose ring snaffle to start them.
 
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