Kimblewick question

Quartz

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Just bought a kimblewick (aka spanish jumping bit). I have got this primarily for jumping and hacking. I just quickly want to ask do you think should try it out in my dressage lesson today before I jump with it to get used to it? Stupid question I know, but just wondered different opinions. Thanks
 
I personally would make sure the horse is happy with the bit in flat work, prior to jumping. Flatwork is equally as important in jumping, and if theyre not happy you might undo some good work youve already done.

What bit were they in before? was it a curb bit?
 
I personally would make sure the horse is happy with the bit in flat work, prior to jumping. Flatwork is equally as important in jumping, and if theyre not happy you might undo some good work youve already done.

What bit were they in before? was it a curb bit?

At the mo hes in a jointed D ring with copper and rollers. It was suggested to use a kimblewick for jumping as he is just so strong and once we canter will not listein. Hes not the same on the flatwork, well he can be strong but its not the same. I am going to attach the reins in the usual place through the rings and just have the chain behind for added breaks to see how that goes, then stronger if necessary. I have got the kimblewick in rubber.
 
I agree with FayeF, I'd recommend trying the bit under 'controlled' conditions before you need to use it for real.

I'm a big fan of Kimblewicks, but they don't seem to be the best solution for every horse. Assuming you have the straight bar type, if your horse is used to a jointed bit they'll need to get used to the new feel of the bit in their mouth.
 
I agree with FayeF, I'd recommend trying the bit under 'controlled' conditions before you need to use it for real.

I'm a big fan of Kimblewicks, but they don't seem to be the best solution for every horse. Assuming you have the straight bar type, if your horse is used to a jointed bit they'll need to get used to the new feel of the bit in their mouth.

The bit is jointed. I do feel it would be better to try him in it first, just wanted to make sure I wasn't being stupid!!!
 
I used to jump my boy in a kimblewick - I couldnt use it for flatwork though as it was too much for him & he used to evade or overbend in it. You might just find that you can use your snaffle for flatwork & resort to the "extra brakes" for jumping & hacking out. Obviously give it a go on the flat first to try it out but I wouldnt do a whole lesson in it if the horse is happy on the flat in a snaffle.

Good luck :)
 
I used to jump my boy in a kimblewick - I couldnt use it for flatwork though as it was too much for him & he used to evade or overbend in it. You might just find that you can use your snaffle for flatwork & resort to the "extra brakes" for jumping & hacking out. Obviously give it a go on the flat first to try it out but I wouldnt do a whole lesson in it if the horse is happy on the flat in a snaffle.

Good luck :)

OK, good thinking. Will do lesson like normal and then put the other bit in tomorow to try it out. Thanks
 
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