long shank bit

[tigerlily12345]

i was at the hand equestrian centre on saturday watching the BSJA Senior Premier, it was like 1.40, so pretty high level! and one rider was using a bit with a really long shank, and i dont mean like a pelham, when i saw it i thought it was a hackamore!
im not a fan of really strong bits at all and this just seemed excessive!
sorry bit of a rant!

 

[Indigo Moose]

It's all about how it's used, the rider's hands are so important, and at that height I'm sure they're more than capable of using it properly.

For me, I'd prefer to use a severe bit lightly, than have to haul on a mild bit to get the message across.

 

[Jennyharvey]

I agree with both actually. Im not a fan of bits of any sort, but i also see a lot of pro riders using strong bits. I understand that an experienced rider will be more capable with a stronger bit, but i guess im probably the only person who believes that all horses can be trained to respond to a light touch of a mild bit, or even a bitless in any level of competition.

 

[nikkimariet]

American Gag??

Bits are like most things...used properly and in the right hands they can be a miracle, and vice versa.

 

[flyingfeet]

i was at the hand equestrian centre on saturday watching the BSJA Senior Premier, it was like 1.40, so pretty high level! and one rider was using a bit with a really long shank, and i dont mean like a pelham, when i saw it i thought it was a hackamore!
im not a fan of really strong bits at all and this just seemed excessive!
sorry bit of a rant!

Sorry but your post implies you know nothing about bits!

Long shank = dull action on the horses mouth when used properly

Using a shorter shanked bit is sharper, as it acts quicker

So you are either saying they were hauling and using the mechanical leverage (which would mean shortening the reins by a foot), which is HIGHLY unlikely when jumping 1.40m

Or you mis-interpreted what a shanked bit does and actual saw a rider softly using a long shanked bit to give subtle aids whilst jumping 1.4m as a shorter shank could have provoked more of a reaction

I'm guessing the latter?