Bitting advice?

[floradora09]

Bramble's 20 now, but still loves his jumping! Been doing everything in a french link loose ring snaffle for about the last three years, but when I showjump him he gets quite strong. Also XC he gets so strong my arms ache so much after doing a course. I don't want to make any unnessesary changes, but am having to pull quite hard at his mouth and think it would be kinder on both of us to try a bubble bit (three ring snaffle) on the second hole down? Or are there any other suggestions? Thanks!

 

[thedunthing]

Sorry not much use, but my mare is in a dutch gag and i would think she has been for a while (shes 19) and i can't stand it crap for turning and every horse i have seen wearing one has its head in air!

 

[teddyt]

I wouldnt use a dutch gag either. Wont bore you with pages of why not but few horses like them and they should be ridden with 2 reins, despite everyone only ever using 1!

You could try a hanging cheek snaffle. Or a beval bit (loop ring snaffle). Both of these will offer you more than your current bit.

The best thing would be to try one for a few weeks so your horse can learn the new signals

 

[hellybelly6]

There is always an exception to the rule, but my horse goes best in his gag otherwise he leans down on my hands. The gag helps lift him up and keep him off the forehand. It is also good when he puts his chin between his legs onto the girth and broncs.

Anyway, have you considered a hanging cheek snaffle with a drop noseband?