Bitting advice for showing

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Betty'sBoo

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I am after some bitting advice for showing. I have only just got back into riding after a 20 year break and have had my horse since December. Having tried a few bits I've found she goes best in a Precision (Universal with lozenge but no curb strap), as she can lean on the bit. Obviously this can't be used for dressage and I have been schooling in a loose ring snaffle with lozenge but she does lean on it or carry her head high. I know with time and better schooling this will improve. However, we have our first showing show (hunter and riding club horse) on Sunday and I don't know what bit to use. I assume the Universal is a big no? I have looked at pelhams as they have the poll action but have read they aren't a good idea for horses that lean. If I did try one I'd use a single rein with roundings. Any advice would be appreciated either of alternative acceptable bit's or the current bits in use. Thanks in advance.
 
Traditionally showing is snaffle, pelham or double, however if you are going to a local show then I'd be more inclined to stick with what you are currently going well in and accept you may be marked down for it, than try and change and have an unhappy horse and you.

Absolutely do not use a pelham with roundings, in my opinion it would be just as bad as the universal. Riding with two reins isn't that tricky once mastered but again maybe something that needs longer to work on than for this Sunday :).

I would suggest a wilkie bit if you do want to try something more in keeping with the showing image, that might do for the time being whilst schooling her in the snaffle at home. They are not a snaffle, but have more of a gag action with a little poll action which should encourage her to lower her head, and you should be able to source one in the same mouthpiece that she's currently in, plus you can use one rein with them.

But I would suggest just going in what she feels best in and aiming for a nice day out :), good luck and do report back!
 
Another one against roundings- they just look like your horse is way too strong for you/ill mannered and that you don't know how to use double Reins (not saying this is you, just what it'll look like to a showing judge.)

I personally would just go with the universal to your local show- not much time for you both to adjust now and enjoy it without worrying about the bit x
 
Roundings are a big no no - more so than a Universal imo.

I'd stick to the snaffle personally, showing is subjective and these details do count. The idea of trying a Wilkie or Bevel might help though?
 
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