how does a grackle work and q about micklem

[[59668]]

Looking at a grackle, how does this mechanically stop a horse crossing its jaw? I can't work it out.

And how is a micklem different. They seem like they would function the same to me. Straps are in the same places.

 

[PortuguesePony]

I don’t use a Grackle so couldn’t tell you how exactly sorry or the precise mechanics but I imagine it is done by restricting the amount of movement in the jaw, therefore reducing the ability to cross it ..? Like I say, don't accurately know, just a guess sorry!

I do however use a Micklem bridle on one of my (dressage) horses, which is quite different. If I had to liken the noseband of the Micklem to any other, it would be the drop noseband, not a grackle. The aim of the Micklem is to offer an “anatomical” fit, rather than to stop a horse crossing his or her jaw, opening the mouth, or similar. I use the Micklem because one of my horses has very prominent cheek bones and other bridles can rub this area. I do not fasten the noseband any tighter than I would a normal cavesson noseband and therefore it does not act to stop him from opening his mouth, if he so feels the need. But that is just my preference; it can however be fitted tighter for the same effect as a drop noseband if desired..

 

[yeeharider]

no help on the grackle my mare hates them, but she broke her jaw 2010 and was not happy in a cavesson noseband so I bought a Micklem as the noseband sits higher than where she fractured her jaw and she goes very well in it, accepts the contact goes forward in self carriage. Can highly recommend it

 

[TallulahBright]

Another thumbs up for the micklem, my girl is v sensitive on her face and she goes beautifully in it. She no longer tries to rub her head all over me when I untack.

 

[Shay]

Came onto this thread intending to post about how a grackle works (if soemone else hadn't already) but was intrigued by TallulahBright's post. One of my boys - who does wear a grackle rubs his face when untacked. He loves having the corners of his mouth scratched - I just hold my hands in place and he scrubs up and down them. I thought it was just him - I will think again about the bridle.

Anyway - the action of a grackle is higher on the point of the jaw. Going down the head you have the throat lash - which is really just there to stop you pulling the bridle off. Then what would be the noseband equivalent - but on a grackle is much higher than on a cavesson. Then the bit beneath the bit which is sort of a flash strap alternative. The combination of not being able to open the mouth and the much higher noseband strap prevents the horse crossing the jaw because they simply cannot get enough "wriggle room" to do so. In contrast the flash alone only prevents the opening of the lower part of the mouth. The horse can still move the jaw laterally and so can still cross it.

I've always been intrigued by the Mickleham but never tried one - in large part because they are not (or were not) competition legal. Although the bridle itself is now permitted you have to look at the specific rule book for your discipline as some bit combinations are not allowed with a mickleham. And to be honest I wouldn't spend that much on a bridle I could not use in competition! But with the rule changes and food for thought as above I do now plan to re-investigate!

 

[[59668]]

Thank you shay that's really useful. So looking at a micklem, as the straps are in the same place as on a grackle effectively, would it have the same effect.
I ride mine in a micklem (which is comp legal btw) and also have a grackle which I don't really use, and just got to thinking.

 

[Star_Chaser]

what are the main differences between a micklem and a normal say snaffle bridle? I know one is bitless but control wise what are the benefits?

 

[Tammytoo]

The micklem is only bitless if you chose to use it that way. The difference between a standard snaffle and a micklem is the way it sits on the horses head. It is anatomically designed to avoid the most sensitive parts of the head and does not exert pressure in the same way. Whilst the straps around the head may look the same as the grackle, they are not attached to each other on the nose and were designed to keep the bridle from slipping round the head, not to apply pressure.

If you search for Micklem Bridle on youtube there is a very good description of how it works and how to fit it.

 

[Luci07]

ahh wish I hadn't read this thread. I too have a horse who likes to have a massive head rub when I take his bridle off! I thought it was just him but now you have me doubting him..