New horse, took off on me

[sailing]

Hi,
I have a new draught horse. 8 years old, has had lots of success with previous two owners in showing and working hunter. Well used to being out in the countryside.

Yesterday while out hacking he took flight on me and took off. He was very calm up to that point as we crossed through stubble fields that we had been through a few times prior to yesterday. I had an egg butt snaffle in him. It clearly wasn’t enough as he took me on a tour of the field and wouldn’t listen to any of my commands until he eventually wore himself out. I schooled him in the field afterwards with upwards and downwards transitions and he has fine again.

The taking off didn’t bother me so much, it was his lack of brakes that concerned me. What type of bit would people recommend? I am hoping to get him out on the hunting field this season and yesterday’s carry on isn’t acceptable.
Thanks

 

[PinkvSantaboots]

If his been shown his probably been ridden in a Pelham or double bridle I would try what his been used to, that way you have the bottom rein if you really need it, it may have been a bit if a one off but I totally understand you not wanting it to happen again.

 

[HazuraJane]

Sounds unnerving. Glad you stuck it out. Good luck with the bitting.

 

[bubsqueaks]

try crossing your reins this really helps with instant control
we use neue scheule universal bit which can be used as a snaffle or has the option of bottom ring for more leverage & can even add curb strap as well

 

[Pearlsacarolsinger]

try crossing your reins this really helps with instant control
we use neue scheule universal bit which can be used as a snaffle or has the option of bottom ring for more leverage & can even add curb strap as well

I have always used NS Universal with 2 reins, to good effect.

 

[Widgeon]

try crossing your reins this really helps with instant control
we use neue scheule universal bit which can be used as a snaffle or has the option of bottom ring for more leverage & can even add curb strap as well

bubsqueaks - can you explain why and how this works, and how to do it effectively? I've heard other people say the same but I've never quite got my head around it. The one time I've been on a horse that really truly took off (years ago, I was a teenager) I tried all sorts to stop her and couldn't. I tried pulling, I tried turning a tight circle (turns out ponies can still gallop with their nose on their own shoulder), riding her into a hedge (I was desperate) - nothing worked and eventually I bailed, which did work and I was very pleased with my little self.

If you can explain how it works in small easy words I'd be very interested to finally understand!

 

[PatchyBabyHorse]

What did the old owners use?

 

[Summit]

Those suggesting a NS Universal, which mouthpiece are you suggesting? Logenze/Waterford/Verbidand?