I didn't die

arizonahoney

arizonahoney

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Went autumn hunting with the SU this morning. Was gorgeous weather, everyone was very friendly and it was great to see the hounds at work and to hear the sound of the horn and the whippers-in giving the calls.

Here's what I learned though - an Eggbutt snaffle and cavesson noseband just won't do for such exciting situations. Cobasaurus tanked off with me almost immediately and we overtook the Master, whoops! Luckily he seemed to take it in good part and expect it from newbies. In my defence, I got back from the US on Sunday morning and didn't have a chance to sort out stronger brakes...

So we were out and about in company for about 38 minutes, but I really enjoyed myself and will be back for more, albeit better prepared.

Thanks, SU!
 
glad you had a good day!! cobasaurus + snaffle is often not a good combo, but at least you tried it before whapping a stronger bit in! don't let it put you off (doesn't sound like it has though!) and let us know how you get on next time :)
 
Glad you had a good day, was Fred your master? Regarding bit I would worry about the noseband first if cobby keeps his mouth shut he might not be so much of a tank.
 
arizonahoney said:
If anyone can recommend a bit, I'd be grateful. My experience is limited to snaffles and western bits, you see...
Click to expand...

Presuming your boy is a fat mouthed strong necked cob like mine? I use a lozange gag (this one http://www.thebitcompany.co.uk/index.php/Neueschule/Universals-and-gags/Neue-schule-tranz-universal-with-16mm-mouthpiece/p_173.html

I found a dutch gag rubbed and mouth piece was too large so this one suits him perfectly. I ride him the majority of the time on the snaffle but move to the 'brakes' when jumping or hunting.

I ride my lad with no nose band, he doesn't open his mouth so no need to use one.
 
Well done you. Its very exciting for them isnt it?!!!. I have returned to hunting this year after a 15 year break. My husband has always continued and I just followed on foot. I now have a fantastic Highland Pony (LHP) that has a neck to end all necks. I panicked somewhat thinking I would never stop him and put him in a 2 ring french link gag. He hated it and wouldnt go forward and he now hunts in a snaffle and is a lot more forward going and happy. Not all the same I know but for the first time in my life I have learnt that less is more! xx
 
I have tried everything in my snaffle mouthed horse for hunting........he loves it but thinks he should be in the front, make a great masters horse!!!! :D

Currently in Pelham with two reins, tight curb chain, flash and guess what no brakes at all, he does a funny jump forward gets his neck and head and that is it flat to the floor.
If i manage to keep his front end, he has now mastered how to go flat out with his nose plastered to his chest!!!!

He stands like an angel when he has too, i can open and shut gates, he'll wait for a loner at the back, i can get off him to pick up the horn when they dropped it, he'll stand stock still to get back on, then ears go forwards, and away we go.

We always have a great day but i can't move for three days after. :eek:
 
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