sorry...bit question!

[BroadfordQueen]

went on a pleasure ride today and although my ned jumped everything fine, when he was just cantering along a field he put his head right down to the floor and fixed it there and then just galloped.

he is an a kimblewick at the moment, and i am doing a team chase next weekend, so basically i need a stronger bit. does anyone have any recommendations? thinking of a gag of somesort.

will be very greatful for any help! thanks x

 

[helenandshadow]

have you thought about a pelham?

 

[BroadfordQueen]

his old owners said he "doesnt like pelhams"...but will proberbly try it out and see what he is like!

 

[helenandshadow]

oh ok, i tried shadow in a pelham and she didn't like it (well she's ok with 2 reins but don't fancy going xc with 2 reins!) so now i use a dutch gag which she goes fantasticly in. but i thought as he's in a kimblewick he might be ok in a pelham!

 

[AlexAndJess]

It sounds like he is leaning on the bit. I'd suggest something without a straight bar?

 

[BroadfordQueen]

i thought maybe a cheltnham gag..?

 

[AlexAndJess]

Cheltenham gags act as a snaffle until the horse starts pulling, then the pressure comes in. It is a very strong bit when yanked on, so you have to be very carefull with your hands. I was going to use one on my little pony as she can get very strong, but i have been told by a friend who uses one that they're not very good for steering.

 

[flyingfeet]

If the head is on the floor a pelham will make this twice as bad.

You need a running gag or true elevator to lift the head. Continental (dutch, bubble) and American gags all lower the head, so are no good for you.

Your suggestion of a cheltenham gag is a good place to start. However I would prefer a double jointed mouthpeice, as I am not a fan of the nutcracker action of a single joint.

 

[cariadssogreat]

I agree with cotwoldSJ - as alot of the continental gags use poll pressure and therefor lower the head!!

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[KatB]

Ive found both horses ive used a cheltenham gag on have evaded by dropping their head, and doing exactly what your pony does now. How about a tomb thumb bit? Not hugely strong, but the one with rings on it keeps their mouths soft, and generally worked well for my boy who used to do exactly the same.

 

[WishfulThinker]

A bubble bit will not help that much! That is what Beau is in and when he wants to go he will GO, and you just cant get him round - well I cant

 

[spotty_pony]

Monty has a dutch gag (with the reins on the second ring) and this gives extra control as he is very strong!