tom thumb bit

aran

aran

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I take you are comparing

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and

This myler
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Looks like you are comparing USA tom thumbs, which are very different to a UK version.

First is nastier as its a single joint with nutcracker action, so it pinches the tongue and can stab the roof of the mouth. The second is an ergonomic myler than eliminates these problems
 
that looks like a nice bit - i show jump in the snaffle version of that so he likes the mouth piece - I take it that when you use the snaffle rein you put some pole pressure and when you use the lower rein it helps raise the head?
Not sure what the issues are with them!
 
I didnt realise that the UK were different from the US - very confusing.
I can understand the issue with the single joint but they do do double jointed (plus those issues are with all single jointed bits not just tom thumbs surely?).
I don't want to use an agressive bit on aran as he doesnt need one (just something to help me lift his head when out hunting!) but I don't really see the issue with the bit G_W posted - should it be used with a curb strap like a gag should?
 
Tom thumbs / jumper bits are quite odd, because despite the poll pressure, you can lift the head.

When used with a curb you get more brakes but the pressure is directed a llittle more downwards, so when used like this it will lower the head.

You do not need to use with a curb, but can easily add one if the brakes aren't good enough!
 
thank you
he was strong (but he was in a snaffle) but it was more the head on the floor that I could have done without so it is lift that i could do with! I just wondered whether it may twist when you take up a contact on the lower rein. I was once told that if you use a gag you should always use a curb strap too to prevent the bit from twisting - i'm not sure if this is correct?!?
 
Its one train of thought (interestingly promoted by Neue Schule "after" they brought out their £10 curb...)

In reality most continental, wonder and american gags work perfectly well without one and don't cause problems.

The tom thumb / jumper does not have long enough top shanks or large movement to 'need' a curb - as I said its an add on option.
 
My horse sticks his head on the floor, and this is the only bit I have had any success with. The curb just adds to braking slightly. All the "conventional" lifting bits I used on him had no effect at all.
 
thank you everyone for all your comments.
i shall be borrowing lots of bits and see what happens!

its sooo difficult when there are soooooo many different varieties - i've always been a snaffle or pelham girl - time to experiment!
 
i used a snaffle most the time but for jumping/fast hacking/jumping always a tom thumb with copper inlay and rollers
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its fab and i can pick her head up with it
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