FreeRider19
Active Member
How do gags work? I know there ment for stronger horses to help slow them down Ive ridden lots of horses who​w have gags but I've never understood how it works? Can anyone explain?x
thank you
thank you
Gags
- Thread starter FreeRider19
- Start date
texel
Well-Known Member
It is always wise to understand the action of any bit you are using on your horse.
There is an excellent site which explains the actions of bridles and bits and is worth reading:
http://www.sustainabledressage.net/tack/bridle.php
There are different styles of gag available; e.g. Cheltenham gag, continental gag etc which one do you have in mind ?
Their action will vary depending on the style but generally they provide leverage, lift and turning power.
• Leverage. When you pull back on one of the lower rings with the rein, the top ring levers forward and pulls the cheekpiece down, which applies pressure to the horse's poll and encourages him to lower his head.
• Lift. As you pull on the reins, the mouthpiece rides up the snaffle ring in an elevating action. When combined with a strong leg pushing the horse forward into the bridle, it helps to balance him off his forehand. (This effect can be increased by the style of mouthpiece--it's normally smooth but can be a stronger slow-twist or even a custom design.)
• Turning power. The sidepieces function like the shanks of a full-cheek snaffle, helping to steer the horse by pressing against the outside of his face in a turn.
There is an excellent site which explains the actions of bridles and bits and is worth reading:
http://www.sustainabledressage.net/tack/bridle.php
There are different styles of gag available; e.g. Cheltenham gag, continental gag etc which one do you have in mind ?
Their action will vary depending on the style but generally they provide leverage, lift and turning power.
• Leverage. When you pull back on one of the lower rings with the rein, the top ring levers forward and pulls the cheekpiece down, which applies pressure to the horse's poll and encourages him to lower his head.
• Lift. As you pull on the reins, the mouthpiece rides up the snaffle ring in an elevating action. When combined with a strong leg pushing the horse forward into the bridle, it helps to balance him off his forehand. (This effect can be increased by the style of mouthpiece--it's normally smooth but can be a stronger slow-twist or even a custom design.)
• Turning power. The sidepieces function like the shanks of a full-cheek snaffle, helping to steer the horse by pressing against the outside of his face in a turn.
Hoof_Prints
Well-Known Member
So glad you posted that web link! I found that site a while ago and haven't been able to find it since, saved to favourites 
It's very interesting
It's very interestingFreeRider19
Active Member
Thank you do much extremely helpful!!!