Can a horse work "on the bit"

[Tiarella]

in a hackmore

Probs a very silly question

Also, pics of horses ridden in hackmores would be even better

 

[chestnut cob]

Yes. "on the bit" is about the horse working through correctly from behind, not whether it has a bit in its mouth.

 

[Ezme]

of course the can, "on the bit" just means the back end engaged and the horse attentive in simple terms. I think saying "on the bit" is why people think its acceptable just to ratchet the head in

 

[Tiarella]

Okay, I really need to rephrase the question

I know what "on the bit" means.

You know what I mean though

 

[Damnation]

I have ridden a horse "On the bit" in a hackamore, so yes it is possible

 

[rubyrumba]

The BHS do not like the term "on the bit". Instead it should be "working in a rounded outline" or similar so that should help!

 

[Storminateacup]

My heavy weight cob goes into a Hackamore to help him work on the bit as he is so very strong at times in snaffle, especially after other people have ridden him when I ve been away. It helps him rebalance himself and strengthen his top line and other muscles for halting and collection. I used it first when I got him as a 9 year old and he had no idea how to carry his own weight in lightness and he leaned on the bit in everything I tried.
It really can be very effective in sensitive hands.
A Parelli headcollar can also do the same thing and i have use that too.

 

[millitiger]

of course- mine will work in a true outline with a headcollar on if i am playing around on the way in from the field!