Tom Thumb bit and Bit guard help?

[SuperCoblet]

Hi, I had a lesson on my pony today and we experimented with different bits because as usual he was misbehaving. We adventually came to the Tom thumb bit and he went really well in it, we have ordered one off eBay now however in the lesson it pinched his lip and the fur had been rubbed off. Would a rubber bit guard help and how do you get them on as a Tom thumb is quite long right?
Thanks x

 

[icestationzebra]

They can pinch a little due to the leverage action if your rein is on the bottom - check that the bit is not too small. Bit rubbers go on really easily - I've got some on mine - as you pull over one end and then the other. Far easier than over a snaffle

 

[star]

they do pinch. have never used mine without bit guards. the guards go on really easily.

 

[unicornleather]

If it is a loose ring it is advisable to use bit guards just make sure you have enough clearance (1/2" out either side of the horse's mouth at least)
Oz

 

[maggiesmum]

So.... you get 2 lengths of string, you thread one through the hole in the middle of the bit guard and tie a knot so you have a big loop, you do the same with the other piece.
You then put your foot in one loop and pull up on the other, turning the hole in the middle of the bit guard into a slot which you feed the bit through... Simples!!!

 

[unicornleather]

Good idea maggies mum, I just usually man handle them on!
Oz