Bitting problems?

[Gerilew]

This is my 1st post (so be gentle with me

I am currently part loaning an Arab X who is currently ridden in a snaffle. He is fine when schooling but when out hacking he does grab the bit and take off

I asked around the yard for opinions on using a stronger bit and was lent a pelham to try - It worked wonders out hacking but he was backing off it in the school. The owner (who doesnt ride him anymore) said it was far too severe and she would get hold of a gag - Same problem although he just started to ride lazily in the school so now hes back in his snaffle - I know I could swap between the two (but its a lot of faffing around) just wondered if you could suggest a bit that would work well with both schooling and hacking.

How about a hanging cheek snaffle ?

Thanks - hope you can help

 

[Hippona]

This is my 1st post (so be gentle with me

I am currently part loaning an Arab X who is currently ridden in a snaffle. He is fine when schooling but when out hacking he does grab the bit and take off

I asked around the yard for opinions on using a stronger bit and was lent a pelham to try - It worked wonders out hacking but he was backing off it in the school. The owner (who doesnt ride him anymore) said it was far too severe and she would get hold of a gag - Same problem although he just started to ride lazily in the school so now hes back in his snaffle - I know I could swap between the two (but its a lot of faffing around) just wondered if you could suggest a bit that would work well with both schooling and hacking.

How about a hanging cheek snaffle ?

Thanks - hope you can help

Hmm....Does he grab the bit and run off head in air? If so a hanging cheek snaffle may help as it offers some poll pressure and may help lower his head. However if he tanks off with his head between his knees then it won't help you much.

How about a waterford or cherry roller, on a loose-ring....something thats a bit harder for him to grab hold of.

Personally I dont like gags and strong bits that hold the horse back, I find that they contain all the 'power' if you like, and you can end up with explosive horses ( from experience- I'm sure others may not agree)

Have you had his teeth checked? Reluctance to take a contact and then tanking off may indicate he's not comfortable in his mouth.

Also...I'm not keen on single jointed snaffles...perhaps if you go for the hanging cheek you could get one with a revolver or lozenge, some horses don't like the nutcracker action of a single joint.

Sorry if this is a bit granny-eggs-suck but I don't know you