The Grackle - Functional or fashion?

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Benjamin

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What is the purpose of a grackle?

I have never used one, but just got a bridle (secondhand) with one and was curious as to their use.

Thanks
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Also just closes the mouth, but IMHO superior to a flash or a drop as it does not obstruct the airway. It is a bit of a paradox that event riders use a flash with a nose breathing strip on their horses.

I am still at a loss as to why they are not BD legal.
 
Functional for me!
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I use one on Ali for dressage (they're Dressage Ireland legal fortunately!) and even though he's very strong, I have reasonably good control when he's in a grackle and single-jointed eggbutt/full cheek.
 
They are really nice nosebands as they dont put pressure on the sides of the teeth like flashes/tight cavessons do. Really useful nosebands IMHO.
 
I have mine just above the end of the cheek bone bits - probably best to look at a picture of one on and you can see quite clearly where they should sit. Once you get it on you will see there isn't really much option on where it sits.
Functional for me too although I ride in a cavesson for schooling I find the grackle gives me a little more control when his blood's up and I think they're kinder than flashes and drops
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Thank you all for your replies. I currently use a flash on Rudy, so this may be a better bet for him?

Does anyone have any fitting instructions?

Thanks again

P x

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Glad it is not just me who wonders why BD do not allow a grackle, agree with CS, much more comfortable for the horse than a flash. Odd rule, if anyone can explain then please do, would be interested to know.
 
Grackle named after the hard pulling winner of the 1933?, 1936? Grand National.
Like the standing martingale a misunderstood, under used but superb piece of kit.
 
Yup, I know it's a Mexican grackle but I wasn't sure whether the OP was referring to a regular or Mexican grackle
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But I prefer them as regular grackles have a tendency to slip.

Here's a photo of Ali modeling a regular grackle
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They are use because its the norm to clamp the horses mouth shut so he cant complain about the bit. Although they do look smart, I prefer not to use nosebands.
 
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They are use because its the norm to clamp the horses mouth shut so he cant complain about the bit. Although they do look smart, I prefer not to use nosebands.

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PMSL.

I find them very useful - pony crosses jaw badly, and although still can in it, not as bad.
 
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